This is the time of year when most of our top sailors start training hard for the season ahead. With this in mind, we thought it would help you guys out with your own training if you knew how the pros manage to learn so much so quickly.

We asked a handful of the top freestylers, to name one thing that they think has helped them to learn new moves and become as good a freestyler as they are. And here's what they said.

Elton 'Taty' Frans (Starboard, MauiSails)

"For me, it's my love for the sport and being inspired by all the guys here on Bonaire and even people on tour like Antoine Albeau (JP, NeilPryde). Although he's doing slalom, just watching him sailing makes me want to get out on the water whenever it's windy regardless of the discipline. I'd take a slalom or formula board just to get out there and enjoy the sport."

Egor Popretinskiy (JP, NeilPryde, MFC)

"When I'm off the water I really like skateboarding because it teaches me to think quickly and make split second decisions. I also love sporty computer games, because again they help to develop quick thinking and fast reactions which definitely help for freestyle. I also really love meeting new people, and going to new places. I think this helps me to maintain high levels of motivation."

Marcilio Browne (Fanatic, North, MFC)

"I think just having good sailors to train with makes the biggest difference."

Kiri Thode (Starboard, Gaastra)

"I think watching myself on video every single day helps a lot. But I also think that because I know I'm being filmed, I learn to do the moves with a big smile on my face! You have to smile when you're learning (and when you're going to be on camera!)."

Andre Paskowski (Fanatic, North)

"Enjoying your time on the water is key. I've had moments when I just wanted to learn new things and forgot about having fun and I just got worse. Now I only go out when I'm feeling good. If you enjoy every minute, you'll perform better in the end."

So there you have it, have fun, smile, sail with people that will inspire you, and get brain training on the computer!