Paddlesport Institute

Venues: flatwater and gently moving current.

At this level, instruction begins with a solid review of flatwater fundamentals before moving into dynamic environments, including current and rapids up to Class I–II. Emphasis is placed on developing comfort, control, and composure — even when conditions are less than ideal.

Participants will practice critical skills such as wet exits in moving water, self-rescue techniques, and assisted rescues. The ultimate goal is to foster greater self-sufficiency, confidence, and resilience, preparing you for safe, independent paddling adventures.

Venues: flatwater and introduction to rapids.

Instruction at this level begins with a review of fundamental skills on flatwater, ensuring a strong technical base before moving into dynamic environments such as current and rapids up to Class I–II. The primary focus is on developing comfort, control, and composure — especially in moments when conditions become unpredictable.

You’ll practice essential techniques including wet exits in moving water, as well as both self-rescue and assisted rescue methods, all designed to build critical safety habits. We will also introduce strategies for reading water, choosing appropriate lines, and adapting to changing conditions with confidence.

Venues: drills in easy rapids and running harder rapids.

This level of instruction is designed for paddlers who already have experience navigating rapids and are looking to refine their technique for greater effectiveness, efficiency, and elegance. It is also ideal for aspiring instructors seeking to sharpen their demonstration skills.

Training venues will include a combination of easier rapids, technical features, and flatwater drills, gradually progressing to more challenging rapids up to Class II. Focus areas include rescuing others from your boat, introductory bracing and rolling techniques, and executing precise maneuvers in dynamic but approachable water — all preparing you for more advanced river environments

Venues: drills in harder rapids, preparing for specific rivers.

This level of instruction is designed for paddlers who have developed a roll and are beginning to apply it in moving water. You'll build technical skills such as surfing waves and holes — both for fun and for functional river navigation — as well as catching micro eddies, utilizing slackwater, and mastering backferrying techniques.

Throughout the course, you'll focus on maintaining composure and precision during more demanding maneuvers and heavier rapids. Drills and skill-building sessions will take place in flatwater, Class I, and Class II environments, with opportunities to run rapids up to Class III as confidence and conditions allow.

Venues: training in moderate terrain, in preparation for difficult and expert terrain.

Boaters seeking advanced instruction should have a reliable roll in moving water and the ability to maintain composure in Class II–III conditions, including during extended swims. As with all instruction at the Paddlesport Institute, this course emphasizes building strong habits in flatwater and easier moving water environments before applying them in more complex and demanding sections of rapids.

Depending on conditions and venue availability, we may explore features and runs up to Class III–IV, with a focus on selecting skill-appropriate lines and strategies for challenging terrain.