Level 3: River Kayaking

Article Index

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Course Overview

The River Kayaking course is a program emphasizing safety, enjoyment and skill acquisition for entry-level through intermediate individuals in public, private and commercial settings.

PFD designed for whitewater use, whitewater helmet, clothing suitable for paddling, protective footwear, boat, paddle.

NOTE: The CCA does not provide boating gear. Participants need to acquire gear and properly outfit prior to the class.

This is typically a two day class to be taught on rivers up to class II rapids.

ACA Official Curriculum: Level 3: River Kayaking

Introduction, Expectations, & Logistics	Getting Started
Welcome, introductions, paperwork	Launching, carries, landing
Student & instructor course expectations and limitations	Water comfort & confidence
Course itinerary & site logistics	Rescue Priorities: People, gear, & boats
Review waiver, assumption of risk, challenge by choice, medical disclosure	Wet Exits
About the ACA	How To Empty a Kayak
PFD policy (always wear on water)	The Terminology of Paddling (frequently blended in with stroke instruction)
Appropriate personal behavior	Types of strokes: power, turning & bracing
No alcohol / substance abuse	Stroke components: catch, propulsion, recovery, control and correction
Proper etiquette on & off the water	Effective Body Usage and Bio-Kinetics
Respect private property	Use of larger torso muscles
Practice Leave No Trace ethics	Arms as struts connecting paddle to torso
The Paddling Environment	Avoidance of positions that contribute to shoulder injury or dislocations
Wind
Waves
Weather
Water
Personal Preparation
Personal Ability
Swimming Ability
Water comfort & confidence
Fitness, conditioning, and warm up
Safe paddle and boat handling
Safety and rescue considerations
Personal equipment (reviewed by Instructor)
Judgment. In addition to learning hard skills, the importance of developing personal judgment and group responsibility increases on more difficult paddling venues.