Most people have heard of white-water rafting at one time or the other. All they know though is that it is a thrilling water sport that’s not for the weak at heart. So what is white-water rafting? It is an outdoorsy sport that involves navigating a river or water body in an inflatable raft. It is done by a group of people on white water. White water is formed when a river’s gradient rises enough to create a lot of turbulence. Air is then trapped in the water causing it to appear white and frothy, hence the term white water. Navigating this is potentially risky and calls for teamwork.
If you are adventurous at heart and are looking to inject some breath-taking action into your life, these treacherous waters were made for you. Though an extreme sport, you don’t have to be afraid of being thrown into the deep end. Skill levels vary from very basic, to basic paddling skill and ultimately to full mastery. The International Scale of River Difficulty grades the level of white water rafting difficulty. They range from simple, to very dangerous and even potentially life threatening.
White-water rafting has is becoming increasingly popular; the following are some reasons why:
- Adrenaline
People who go out and try white-water rafting have this goal in common. They are probably adrenaline junkies and are looking for the rush it brings. Try and imagine how exhilarating crashing through waves and going head-to-head against the elements with a bunch of your favorite people could be. It is not everyone’s idea of amazing but if you are looking to break out of your comfort zone and feel alive again, this is just the thing for you.
- Ideal to try with loved ones
In between work, school and whatever else life throws our way, there isn’t enough time to spend family. But closely packed together in a raft, there is no avoiding each other. What better way to strengthen your bonds than on unpredictable waters with no inhibitions? For dysfunctional families, white-water rafting is sure to get you working together, at least for a short while.
- Great exercise
Like time with loved ones, we do not get enough exercise. Furthermore, we hate doing it. But what if you could have fun and get much needed exercise at the same time? While white-water rafting, you are either trying to direct your raft down the right path, avoiding an obstacle or continually struggling to get the raft balanced. At the end of the day, you are bound to be worn out physically and relieved of life’s stresses, for a moment.
- The outdoors
Getting outside and getting to experience what the outdoors has to offer is something we scarcely get to do as well. The mist will cool down your skin then the breeze will dry it off. You will get to breathe in fresh air as you experience wildlife and nature at its best. You will enjoy every second you will spend on a Whitewater Raft.