Barefooting is a form of water skiing but without the use of water skis.  In order to properly achieve this skill the barefoot skier is required to travel at much higher speeds behind the boat than they would if using skis.  Here is quick “how to” beginners guide to barefooting! 

1. While hanging onto the boom instruct the driver that you are “clear” and to put the boat in gear.

2. As the boat begins to move forward your legs will start to drag behind you.

3. When you’re ready, let the boat driver know and say “Hit It” or whatever else you use to indicate GO!

4. When the boat accelerates, the water will start to hit your thighs.  At this point make sure to bend your knees to avoid your toes dragging in the water. (Ouch!)

5. The water will feel like it is hitting you harder as the boat continues to pick up speed.  At this point, you should rotate your body so that the water is hitting you at the hip rather than your thighs.

6. Bend your knees at a 90 degrees angle and use your arm strength to swing the lower half of your body around in front of you.  This will require some arm strength so hopefully you ate your spinach that day!  

7. Now you should be sliding on your butt with your feet out in front of you. Gently place your heels on the water and almost instantly you will stand up.

8. Once you have completed all these steps you can say that you have successfully done the tumble-up start!

Check out our gallery of Tommy learning how to barefoot at Eagal Lakes last week.  After flipping around a few times, holding on for dear life and losing his shorts, Tommy had a blast!