Things You'll Need:
- Raft
- Paddle
- Rapids
- Life jacket
- Wet suit
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Step 1
Study the whitewater. It does not flow in one direction. There are rocks, eddies and downed trees that affect the flow of the whitewater.
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Step 2
Set a goal of running parallel with the current. It is important to not wander—keep your vessel aligned with the current.
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Step 3
Switch to ferrying. Ferrying is steering the raft across the river. Your raft will run parallel with the flow while you make a narrow angle toward the riverbank.
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Step 4
Try turns and pivots. Your paddle strokes are vital to turn your raft. Pivots are turning the raft while in one place. While rafting you need to turn your raft so it can squeeze between obstacles.
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Step 5
Avert collisions with boulders and trees with a sideslip. A sideslip is a type of stroke and practice is important.
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Step 6
Paddle your raft to the high or deep section on the river bank where the current flows upstream—this will cause the raft to stop.
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Step 7
Isolate each maneuver and stroke in practice. Perfection comes with practice.
