When I started paddling, I heard a lot about “working a river,” but I had no idea what it meant. (At that time, it was enough work just trying to stay upright.) Fortunately, there were plenty of more seasoned paddlers around who were happy to instruct me on what’s involved in the process. Now, in between challenging ourselves on harder rivers, my friends and I periodically have “skills & drills” days. It’s hard to really practice anything when you’re on a river that pushes your limits, freaking out about the ominous sound of crashing water around the corner. So take a river you’re very comfortable on, and make it harder. One of the favorite local spots is the Jett to Lilly section of Clear Creek. It’s short enough to lap and has features to suit a wide variety of experience levels.

Here’s a fun video of some of my friends and me – hard at “work.”