Whitewater rafting guides should make physical conditioning a priority. Strength and endurance training are a must so guides can successfully maneuver in even the harshest conditions. Many guides may think that the trips themselves are enough exercise, but it is vital to hone your physical fitness so you can keep your passengers safe no matter what.
There are a number of minimum standards that commercial whitewater rafting guides should meet, according to the International Rafting Federation. Among these are wilderness survival skills and current Red Cross certifications in CPR and first aid. These skills come in handy should anything happen while on a trip. These standards are not required; however, guides who meet them will be better equipped and prepared to lead a group.
There is an international scale of river difficulty that you will have to know as a whitewater rafting guide. The scale ranges from Class I through Class V, and increases in difficulty as you go along. For example, Class I encompasses very small rough areas with no skill needed to maneuver, and Class II is an easy ride that includes basic paddling skills and some rough water. When you get to Class IV, however, there are medium waves, whitewater, and some serious drops and maneuvers. Only skilled people should attempt Class IV rapids, and only experts should tackle Class V rides. Guides need to be aware of the classes so they don't take passengers on a trip where they could get in over their head, figuratively or literally. A novice would not be able to handle the higher classes of river difficulty and could get hurt.
Whitewater rafting guides should make a trip down the rapids alone at least once before taking a full boat for a ride. The purpose of this is to notice deceptive areas and dangerous spots that could pose problems with a boatload of people. Look for possible evacuation spots in case the boat capsizes. This initial run will help you avoid surprises and keep the run fun, not dangerous.
It's essential for whitewater rafting guides to give an in-depth safety talk to passengers before the trip. This should be a 20- to 30-minute discussion about how to prepare for and cope in case of emergency. The rafting company should have standard training for guides about what to say to passengers. Also use this time to teach passengers the basic paddling commands. Once you're afloat, give more instruction on paddling.
