Becoming a wakeboarding or waterskiing instructor involves developing strong technical skills, obtaining a recognized certification, and learning how to teach and manage safety on the water. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Learn Wakeboarding/Waterskiing and Build Experience
Take Lessons: Start by learning the basics through professional instruction. Focus on building solid foundational skills like balance, turns, and jumping (for wakeboarding) or slalom techniques (for waterskiing).
Practice Regularly: Gain experience in different water conditions and with different types of equipment, such as towboats or cable parks for wakeboarding.
2. Choose a Certification Organization
Several organizations offer certification programs for wakeboarding and waterskiing instructors:
British Waterski and Wakeboard (BWSW): Offers internationally recognized instructor training.
USA Water Ski & Wake Sports: Provides instructor training courses in the United States.
International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF): Recognized globally for certifications.
World Wake Association (WWA): Provides wakeboarding instructor programs.
3. Meet the Prerequisites
Age Requirement: Most certifications require you to be at least 16-18 years old.
Proficiency in the Sport: You must demonstrate strong wakeboarding or waterskiing skills, including control, tricks, and understanding different riding styles.
First Aid and CPR Certification: A valid first aid and CPR certification is typically required.
Boat or Cable Park Handling Skills: If teaching at a boat-based facility, you may need a boat-driving license or handling skills.
4. Complete an Instructor Training Course
Enroll in a Course: The course usually lasts 3-5 days and includes:
Teaching techniques for beginners and intermediate riders or skiers.
Safety protocols, including towing practices, rescue techniques, and accident prevention.
Understanding the use of equipment (boards, skis, boats, or cables) and how to properly fit students.
Communication skills and how to structure lessons for effective learning.
Safety Emphasis: Focuses on water safety, proper use of life vests, and handling emergency situations on the water.
5. Pass the Instructor Assessment
After the course, you’ll undergo an assessment to test your practical skills in wakeboarding or waterskiing, your teaching methods, and your ability to manage safety procedures.
6. Gain Teaching Experience
Start Teaching: Begin teaching at a watersports center, cable park, or resort. Gain experience by working with beginner and intermediate riders or skiers.
Work with Groups: As you gain more experience, you can progress to teaching more advanced techniques or working with larger groups.
7. Obtain Advanced Certifications (Optional)
Specialize in Advanced Techniques: Pursue certifications in advanced wakeboarding tricks, competitive waterskiing, or coaching high-performance athletes.
Boat Driver Certification: If teaching boat-based wakeboarding or waterskiing, ensure you have the necessary boat-driving licenses and training.
8. Maintain Certification
Revalidation: Certifications often require revalidation every few years to stay updated on the latest teaching techniques, equipment, and safety procedures.
Key Organizations:
British Waterski and Wakeboard (BWSW)
USA Water Ski & Wake Sports
International Waterski & Wakeboard Federation (IWWF)
World Wake Association (WWA)
By obtaining certification and gaining practical teaching experience, you can work as a wakeboarding or waterskiing instructor at schools, resorts, or cable parks, sharing your passion for the sport with students of all levels.
