Ask the Experts | Learn Smart

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By Raimi Merritt

[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Perseverance and practice is only effective if you have a plan. Trying over and over again is ineffective if you are using the wrong technique, for any water sports discipline.[/FONT][/FONT]

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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Many riders hit the water and just try to throw tricks, but this is an unnecessarily difficult approach and can lead to bad habits in your riding. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Successful riders start with a plan. Before you try a trick or new skill, study up on it. Look at instructional articles, watch videos and try to ride with an accomplished rider. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]The quickest way to success is to learn with a coach, someone who knows what to look for. When you're on the water, break down each trick or skill into its component parts. This way you have a better awareness of each of the key elements. Check out these two sequences of two basic tricks. Break each into steps you can review and analyze your progress.[/FONT][/FONT]


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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Then you can put it all together and success will come more quickly. You'lll learn faster and have more fun this way, instead of just riding aimlessly. [/FONT][/FONT]
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[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Focus on each of these three tips individually, but remember they are all related. Successfully implemented, they will bring fun and improvement to your riding. Now, just add in some goal-oriented practice, like working on body position, or balance, or getting air and I guarantee you will have a blast [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]learning new tricks and riding with your family and friends. [/FONT][/FONT]
[FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif][FONT=Trebuchet MS, Lucida Grande, Arial, sans-serif]Raimi Merritt wins her 10th World Cup with her recent win in Linyi City, China. Raimi is also 2 times IWWF Open Women Wakeboard World Champion and a Masters Champion. Raimi is sponsored by Mynt, Nautique, Hyperlite, Rollei Actioncam America, Breathe Boardwear, Proof Eyewear, OrigAudio, Wakami, Peripheral LS and Fly High. Visit www.raimimerritt.com for the latest news. Raimi also offers personalized coaching in Orlando, Florida. E-mail raimi@stevemerritt.com to schedule a lesson. [/FONT][/FONT]