Anybody try windsurfing before?

[truton]

I am going to Aruba in February so I've been thinking about taking windsurfing lessons. In past trips to warmer climes I've pretty much been handed the equipment and left to my own devices to figure it out. This time I really want to learn it (at least be competent enough to change direction without falling down LOL). Has anyone here taken formal windsurfing lessons? Do you think a one hour lesson is enough or should I go for the three hour lesson? What are your experiences?

Since I've been diligent with my weight work I hope I'll have sufficient upper body strength to do this (it's been 8-10 years since I did it last). I'm thinking I should concentrate more on chest and back in these weeks leading up to my trip. What do you think?

I hope with windsurfing and all the other outdoor activities I'll burn off at least some of the expected unclean eating and drinking calories;-).

 

[marcy]

It's been around 20 years since I went windsurfing in Martinique at Club Med. I don't remember having a long lesson but I probably could have used it and I didn't have as much upper body strength then as I do now. I had a pretty tough time getting the sail up if I remember correctly and it took a little bit of strength keeping it up. When I realized I finally got the hang of it, I looked up and was out in the middle of nowhere. Luckily, I was able to get back to shore without a problem. I think a one hour lesson should be enough and I'm sure you have a lot more strength than I had when I went since I didn't strength train until last year.

Good luck and have a great time in Aruba!

Marcy