I think you could pass on the intro lesson, and just fly the trainer as much as possible before taking the real lessons. Fly it until you can fly it with one hand, with your eyes closed (seriously). Apply the $75 towards the real lesson (maybe wsw does this, not sure. If so then go ahead and do the intro).

Fly the trainer in many different wind speeds... 6mph up to 20mph (avoid people of course). Even a trainer kite can drill you into the ground so be careful.

You can easily ride a skateboard with a trainer or even a skim board in the right spot.

I flew stunt kites before getting into kiting and one 3 hour lesson was all I needed to get started. I did not get up and riding in 3 hours, but only learned to rig and fly the kite, self launch, self land, body drag, water relaunch, self rescue, and water start. Basically to be safe with the kite. Never wake boarded or snow boarded in my life. Some people need more time, it really just depends on your life experience, your instructor, and the weather. Took me another month to get up and riding and staying up wind after the lesson...

Kiteboarding is a lot like wakeboarding and snow boarding because you ride on your edge. Play with the trainer and maybe hit up the wakeboard park in orlando, then go ahead and take a lesson in 14mph+.

Also, wear a helmet for the first year (or always). Just trust me on that one.

-tom