Rafting - Points to Note
Rafting is a sport of balance, so one should understand the ways in which he/she can keep himself/herself upright on a raft. It is very important to have a good knowledge about the skills needed to stay afloat once in the water.
There are some essential things to know about white water rafting which will help keep you safe and assist you as well as your team on the trip. Being known about white water rafting will enable you and your whole group to better work together and start you off on a more successful trip. The best way to learn the ropes is simply to get in the raft and do it. However, there is plenty of information that you should know before you prepare for the rafting trip.
Appropriate Clothing
One should wear appropriate clothing like non-synthetic materials.
Always try to wear clothing that dries quickly. Swimsuits and swim trunks are a great choice always. Cotton clothing must be avoided.
Sturdy water shoes are recommended to wear while rafting. One shouldn’t wear shoes like flip flops and slippers that can come off easily.
Life jacket is mandatory to wear before getting in the raft.
If a player has sensitive skin, then he/she should bring sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses for the trip.
One should also bring an extra set of clothes to change in case one gets wet, especially if the weather is cold. It should be secured at your destination or in a dry pack on the raft.
Pack some water to drink and securely wrapped snacks.
Balancing the Boat
Always try to balance your boat. All riders should be placed strategically so that those of similar weight and paddling power are opposite each other. The guide should sit at the back of the boat. The guide will use his paddle like the rudder of the sailboat and move it back and forth to help in steering the boat. More dramatic navigations are made by placing your paddle in the water to one of the sides of the boat.
Navigation Commands
One must understand the navigation commands of white water rafting for a smoother and safer ride down the river. It will also help you to understand that if you want to turn right, then you have to paddle on the left side of the raft.
A command of all forward means everyone is instructed to paddle forward.
Other commands are all rest or all back.
Steering commands are left back and right forward or the opposite should be known by the rafter before playing the sport or going for the trip.
Getting Unstuck from a Rock
Any rafter should know how to get unstuck from a rock. Sometimes, even in rapid waters, a rock will come out of nowhere and get hung up under the raft or anywhere, trapping you. In that case try to locate where the rock has the raft caught. In order to maintain the regularity, you have to carefully shift the majority of the weight in the raft to the opposite side. Use your paddles in the water to push against the current and off the rock.
