One embodiment of the present invention relates to a water ski load distribution system for anatomically distributing tow rope induced forces across a participant. The system includes an abdominal encircling member, a rigid rear support member, a pair of wrist encircling members, and an elongated flexible member. The abdominal encircling member extends around the user's abdomen and may be incorporated within a personal flotation device. The rigid support member extends vertically on the back region between the abdominal encircling member and the user's shoulder region. The elongated flexible member extends between the wrist encircling members and the rigid support member. The length of the elongated flexible member prevents the user from simultaneously extending both arms at the shoulder joint. The wrist encircling members may optionally include load distribution systems that distribute pulling forces directly from a grip induced object to the wrists.