Water sports
Wakeboarding
Ride the water behind a cable or boat.
- Hardintensity
- ~420kcal per hour
- Higher costbudget
- Mediumimpact
Is wakeboarding right for you?
Ride the water behind a cable or boat. It is a hard-intensity, medium impact activity that you can do outdoors, on your own. Expect to burn around 420 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Steep learning curve. Lessons, hire or kit make this one of the pricier options, so try a taster first.
Why try wakeboarding
- Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.
- Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
How to start wakeboarding
Start at a cable wake park with a beginner session.
Get the basics: cable park hire. Borrow or hire before you buy.
Book a few lessons. Good coaching at the start saves months of frustration.
Stay safe around water: go with other people, check the conditions and learn with a qualified instructor.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 15 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 2 | 20 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 3 | 25 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 3 | 30 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
Similar activities
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Learn rescue skills while getting fitter in the water.
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Coastal rowing
Row a sturdy boat at sea as part of a crew.
Not sure wakeboarding is for you?
Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.
