Wakeboarding and other water sports featured here use a cable tow - it's a bit like a ski drag lift, but in a continuous loop pulling you round on your weapon of choice, be it kneeboard, waterskis or wakeboard.
Of course, cable tows are great as it means no expensive boat or fuel costs, plus it gives you plenty of time to practice. Given a bit of determination and time, you'll be whizzing round the lake no problem, rather than hanging on for dear life!