Kiting? Flying a kite today covers a wide range of activities, from familiar single lined ‘diamonds’, through to traction kite sports such as surfing, boarding, buggying, and sport or ‘trick’ kiting. This article refers in particular to the activity know as ‘traction’ or ‘powerkiting’.
I’ve always liked kiting, there is something magical about harnessing the power of the wind for pure entertainment, and controlling an object that is purely held aloft by wind. Needless to say childhood kiting often involved simpler single line affairs or much ‘Charlie Brown’ style running across fields and occasional cursing of the ‘Kite Eating Tree’.
Last year on Fleetwood beach I flew a kite my brother bought and caught the kite bug again. I discovered kiting has come a long way since my childhood experiences.
Why? Why not! Kiting is an activity that all can enjoy, at any age from about 4 onwards. It is a fresh air activity, and can be done alone or with others. The more energetic forms of powerkiting are an extremely fun form of exercise. For me there is something unique about controlling a powerkite, feeling the strength of the wind, leaning back against the pull of a kite and scudding (being dragged fowards; ‘grassy arse’ takes on a new meaning from the Spanish gratitude) with a kite. And its a lot more fun way to work up a sweat than working out in a gym. Expect sore muscles. Its not as easy as it may appear.
I have also found the kiting community in general to be one of friendly helpful people. My current interest is limited to ‘static’ kiting, however I intend to at least have a go at buggying sometime in the near future to see if it is ‘for me’.
When? Powerkites can be flown anytime there is sufficient wind for the size of kite.
Where? Kiting requires only a large clear area such as a field or beach. Always be aware of other users and seek permission for private land.
How? Get your hands on a kite. I started with a small 2-line ‘stunt’ kite, and then became aware of the options available from larger and 4 line kites. Kite fests, speaking to other kiters where you see them and online forums, will give you the necessary information for your first purchase. Avoid ebay for kites. There is a healthy trade in good used kites from aforementioned sources. Its also a lot cheaper than buying new.
Safety: Depending on your experience, and in particular for the more extreme versions of kiting such as boarding, buggying or jumping, it is advisable to invest in at least some basic items of protection such as; knee/elbow pads, and a helmet. Safety & responsibility for yourself and others is of utmost importance and anyone thinking of powerkiting is advised to carry insurance such as that provided by the BBC (http://www.britishbuggyclub.co.uk/) for the sum of 15 pounds annually. Be aware that non-kiters and animals/children may be unaware of dangers such as being hit by a kite, injured by kite lines. Never fly in winds you do not feel confident in and use an appropriate size of kite.
Other essentials include: sun block (I use 35 - 60 SPF), water (as hydration is important) and a ‘kite spike’; to loop your handles round when taking a break. It does make me tired, and I do get the odd pulled muscle, or bruise, but it’s all worth it against the feeling of just me, the wind, and the kite. It seems to make a lot of the stress and troubles of being a renal patient go away which gives me both a feeling of calm and a thrill at the same time. May the smooth wind be at your back, happy and safe kiting.
Information & Links: www.flexifoil.com and www.aeolian.co.uk
The National Kidney Federation cannot accept responsibility for information provided. The above is for guidance only. Patients are advised to seek further information from their own doctor.
Page created: 22 January 2005
Last updated: 6 May 2008
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