River rafting is an outdoor activity that involves the use of an inflatable 10-14 feet raft in navigating varying grades of river rapids. It is considered an extreme sport practiced around the world. While many see it as a risky activity, it poses many advantages to a person’s well-being. The American Canoe Organization listed a total of 3,479 participants in river rafting.
Rafting experts classified the sports into six categories. The Ocoee river rafting ranges from a scale of 1-6, or from slow and low currents to frequent and massive waves.
River rafting proves to induce physical, emotional, and mental benefits to an individual. Organizations that conduct Ocoee river rafting aim to change people’s perspectives by helping participants have a safe and fun-filled activity.
Health Benefits of River Rafting
Rafting poses many challenges, mainly because it requires a lot of practice and skills. However, everything is worth it because of the numerous advantages it can give to one’s body.
Reduces Stress
The thrill that the activity generates guarantees an adrenaline release. It allows the body to focus on conquering the waters more than the difficulties. Moreover, a change in scenery is an excellent way to escape worries in life. Being one with nature allows for peaceful reflection about life.
Provides Good Exercise Opportunity
Rafting in rough waters requires a lot of bodily coordination. It is a good cardio workout because it tones and strengthens the muscles. Moreover, continuous paddling for long hours helps you sustain physical endurance. In fact, over 300 calories can be burned by rafting.
Builds Teamwork
In rafting, no man is an island. There is a good reason why rafting is done in groups only. It requires a team effort and efficient collaboration. The group should communicate among themselves in strategizing the best way to take on the challenges of the sports.
Boosts Self-Esteem
Conquering the difficulties of rafting induce a sense of individual accomplishment. Taking on the wild waters is no easy feat, and success over this encourages an increased self-confidence. It will also inspire a person with the right state of mind, that he/she can do more and do better in everything.
Develops Life Skills
Rafters attest that sports activity is therapeutic in many ways. Not only does it give you a break from life’s difficulties, but it also develops a person’s commitment, dedication, and responsibility skills. In difficult life situations, a person who has conquered the waters is prepared to take on obstacles along the way.
Things to Bring
River rafting is an exhilarating and fun activity. But it can also be overwhelming and exhausting. Hence, one should always come prepared.
- Bathing suit
- Sun protection like sunscreen lotion
- Comfortable footwear (strapped sandals, sneakers)
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Waterproof jacket and pants
- Synthetic long sleeve shirts
- Lots of water
- Snacks
- Bag for wet clothes
Just like other extreme sports, river rafting can be hard, but one does not need to be intimidated at all. With the right attitude and preparations, one can easily reap its physical, emotional, and overall benefits.