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kristinIt is important that your arms work independently while sailing. When one arm is pulling, the other is stationary or pushing. Watch an expert freestyler closely and you'll notice that in most sail tricks the front and back arms move separately. Spending time practicing controlling your sail on the beach can help improve your sailing skills on the water. “Boom boxing” is not only the coolest way to dry off your sail, but it's also a learning tool.
In order to “boom box,” attach a sail on land to an old sailboard or a small piece of plywood with a universal attached (or purchase a practice pivot). While standing with one foot on each side of the universal or the leeward side of the sail, “balance the triangle” - balance the sail by leaning the mast to windward.
Backwind the sail by placing one hand on each side of the balance point of the boom, keeping your hands with palms open as you pressure the boom. (See photos.) Push with the front arm, and the sail should fall toward the ground. Then push with the back arm, and the sail should rise. Repeat. The goal is to have the sail almost touch the ground, then “box” it back up to you.
So on the next hot summer day, dust the cobwebs off that old long board and try sailing on the leeward side of the sail, controlling the sail with “boom boxing.”
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