How To Learn Whitewater and Rafting Basics The thrill of the ride, the cool, refreshing spray of nature's whitewater experience, the emotional rush that comes with floating down a torrential flood of excitement - these are some of the reasons you might want to learn more about whitewater adventures. Get in touch with the basics of whitewater adventuring and learn more about paddling and rafting and get ready for your first run down the river. Difficulty: Easy Time Required: one hour Here's How: 1. Proper preparation is the key to getting started on the right foot when planning your first whitewater experience. There's nothing worse than not understanding the thrills - and the dangers - of whitewater sports before you actually get started. Read! Read! Read! Discover what others think about the sport, how they do it, where they go and what they avoid. Start at the library and finish up with magazines and periodicals dedicated to the sport. Don't get caught mentally unprepared. 2. No matter your current swimming skill, get better at it! Swimming in the pool and fighting strong river currents are two different worlds. The idea is to stay in the raft or boat. But capsizing is inevitable in whitewater currents, so - depending on the type of whitewater you are challenging - building your physical strength and swimming skills are essential for safe adventuring on the water. Build your skills in the pool or at the beach, but don't leave home without good swim proficiency. 3. Never whitewater alone! Regardless whether you're rafting or kayaking or canoeing, having an experienced partner along for the ride can save you in more than just one way. While rafting can be relatively safe (depending on the class of rapids you are challenging), accidents can happen, and being alone can be disatsrous. Even an inexperienced companion can make the adventure more enjoyable - and a lot safer. Take along a friend and get the most from your whitewater excursion. 4. Choose the right floatation device! Yes - a floatation device is important to even the most experienced whitewater adventurer. Again, while whitewater adventures can be a calm and soothing experience, it can also turn into a nightmare if you leave the safety gear behind. Choose a floatation vest that is both comfortable and manageable, then wear it in the pool a few times to determine how well you can maneuver in the water. Good vests are available at most quality sporting goods outlets. 5. Understand The Rules of Whitewater! What's the difference between Class II and Class IV rapids? Is it best to swim across the current or down the current if capsized? Knowing the answers to these and other basic questions of the sport is important to your safety and well being. It takes us back to the first rule listed above, read about the sport and understand its complexities before you even start. There are also a few great videos available. Try the library or video store. Sponsored Links Got Whitewater?5 Star rafting, Half price family specials, Out there for 28 years!www.AmericanRiverRecreation.com Whitewater Rafting MaineWhitewater Rafting Maine & Mass. Check out our special deals!www.wild-rivers.com Idaho River TripsMiddle Fork, Main Salmon, Selway Non-profit and friendly since 1963www.arta.org 6. Use the right equipment! Beginners will find this the most difficult, or the easiest, depending on how you do it. If it's truly your first ride, then by all means contact a tour company and let them do all the outfitting. This usually means all the equipment you need including a floatation device, although I would still recommend using your own. Even consider taking a guide along for the first few rides. It's a good chance to watch and learn and to ask a few questions. 7. Get connected! There's nothing like networking to discover good advice and counseling. Almost every community has its whitewater or rafting clubs. Get in touch with the rafters, the kayakers and canoe activists. Discover the many kinds of whitewater sport, and try several until you find one you enjoy the most. Local clubs almost always welcome beginners and can even offer advanced instruction in the sport. There are also many online communities for whitewater enthusiasts. Start searching! 8. Consider a course in certified water safety. There are plenty of choices. Most YMCA/YWCSs and gyms with pools offer some type of basic water safety or life saving class. Search around your community or contact the American Red Cross office. They can put you in the right direction for some formal and practical experience int he water. It's great to know the skills and even better to practice them. What You Need: Good Swimming Skills Proper Safety Gear Basic Understanding of Whitewater Rules Library, Video Store, Bookstore Reasonable Physical Condition Water Safety Instruction