Recreation
Hand signals
A standardized set of gestures the rider and spotter use to communicate speed, direction, status, and stopping over engine noise and distance.
Hand signals is a term from limnology — the scientific study of inland waters. The detailed explanation below covers the definition, why the concept matters to lake water-quality interpretation, and how it intersects with the LakeGrade rubric. Reading Hand signals alongside the LakeGrade rubric helps make the rubric's structure intuitive — each grading parameter maps directly onto an established limnological concept.
The per-lake pages on LakeQuality always show the specific Hand signals value for that lake, so you can move from the general concept to the specific lake without leaving the site.
What It Means for Your Lake
Because the rider can't be heard over the engine, towed watersports rely on hand signals. Common ones include thumb up for faster, thumb down for slower, and an OK sign (thumb and forefinger circle) for speed is good. A karate-chop motion points the desired direction, and miming smashing an ice-cream cone on your head means stop or return to dock. After a fall, a rider waves or gives a thumbs-up to show they're OK, while crossed arms forming an X overhead signals they need help. Agreeing on signals before the set, and having the spotter relay them to the driver, keeps everyone coordinated and safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hand signals?
A standardized set of gestures the rider and spotter use to communicate speed, direction, status, and stopping over engine noise and distance.
Why does hand signals matter for lake health?
Because the rider can't be heard over the engine, towed watersports rely on hand signals. Common ones include thumb up for faster, thumb down for slower, and an OK sign (thumb and forefinger circle) for speed is good. A karate-chop motion points the desired direction, and miming smashing an ice-crea...
Related Terms
A dedicated second person besides the driver whose only job is to watch the rider and relay their status, legally required in most jurisdictions for towed watersports.
The person operating the boat, responsible for throttle, course, speed, and the rider's safety, working alongside a separate spotter.
The technique for getting up on a wakesurf board from a floating position, letting the boat's pull bring you upright with arms straight and knees bent.
The driver's smooth management of engine power to bring the rider up gently and then hold a precise, steady surf speed.
Source: EPA National Aquatic Resource Surveys, 2026.