How to Back Start on Trick Water Skis

Here's a hot-dog start for the nonconformist.

Things You'll Need

  • Life Vests
  • Ski Boats
  • Trick Skis
  • Water Ski Ropes
  • Water Skis
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Plan with your driver that he or she will gradually "hit it" over a two- to three-second period after your head dunks down underwater.

    • 2

      Position yourself in a normal starting position, with your knees up against your chest and the tips of your trick skis pointing up out of the water as your driver idles the boat forward in gear.

    • 3

      Turn 180 degrees in the water as the ski rope tightens and begins to pull you through the water.

    • 4

      Hold the handle against the back of your thighs.

    • 5

      Take a deep breath and dive your head down into the water, rolling your body forward to bring the backs of your trick skis out of the water. At this point your driver should begin to gradually "hit it" the way a normal skier is pulled up, only slightly slower.

    • 6

      Keep your body rigid and your knees against your chest.

    • 7

      Lift your head up and hold the rope against the small of your back as the boat pulls you out of the water.

    • 8

      Stay low in your vertical crouch and lean slightly away from the boat to keep the backs (in front) of your skis from catching in the water.