About planning

[Bats]

Wassup to all the pros and old timers out there, I would like to ask some questions about planning.

1) When I was in both footstraps and planning, I tried to let go of both hands and maintain control and the position of the sail using only my bodyweight through the harness. I was unsuccessful of course. I heard it is possible to do this if you manage to position the harness lines in your optimum position. So what is the correct way to go about finding this optimum placing?

2) I sail a formula board(170L) with a 8.9m sail. I have no problem planning in footstraps and travelling beam reach when the wind is strong. However when the wind isn't strong enough and I am forced to point downwind or broadreach, I am unable to point the board by using foot pressure or harness weight. Instead I have to move the mast slightly forward to point the board downwind. I know this is not the correct way.. so what is?? I mean, how do you steer using foot pressure??

3) When I see the pros and oldtimers planning, their masts are always raked back and the bottom of the sail almost or already touching the board. I am unable to achieve this leh. Is this position the result of just hiking out all the way and the sail/mast will automatically move into this position??
When I attempt to move the mast back when planning in order to achieve the sail/mast position, I inevitably point upwind and end up losing power...

Really appreciate anyone who takes the time to read and answer this post..

'All bummed out in school'

[Popeye]

Ah, "planning"...

It's always a good idea to have a plan, you will accomplish more that way. Of course, as a famous general once said, "No plan survives contact with the enemy"...

As for PLANING, I think I'd better let someone else answer your questions....

[<For Bats>]

I think you posted something like this before, anyway, here is my sugestions:

1) Trial and error, keep in mind that due to the ever changing nature of winds and waves you will not ride forever (or even long) without at least one hand at the boom. It is good test for line position.

2) Hike-out, sheet-in with your weight (thru lines) and press your front foot toes, move hips and upper body a little forward, less pressure on you back foot. All this or one at a time.

3) Called "close the gap", don't worry about it, get your stance right and rig balanced thru the harness lines. it will come into position naturally.