Begin by watching the video demonstration and reading through the trick descriptions while referring to the picture sequences, which feature an image slider for key event comparisons (slide right to view the first image, left to see the second). Then, watch the phase videos a few times to fully grasp the key concepts, body positions, and movements involved in the trick.

To help you do this, we have split each skill into key phases typically called: Set-up, Initiation, Take-off, Drive and Recovery. Each of these phases is further broken down into Key Events that are critical to the performance of that phase.

Once you have a good understanding of the technical requirements and a clear mental picture of the movement, you can start rehearsing the maneuver at home or outdoors before hitting the water. Visualise the feature on which you’ll perform the move in your mind. Next, see yourself in the image, performing the trick as demonstrated in the video clip (either by superimposing yourself over the paddler or seeing it through your own eyes). Finally, physically practice the maneuver. Start by performing the entire maneuver in real-time. Then, practice each of the four phases in isolation at a pace that suits your needs. When you’re happy with your progress, complete the whole sequence in real-time again.

It’s time to hit the water! Rehearse the maneuver on flat water – this is a great way to practice the important technical requirements of the move without the additional distractions of white water. As you rehearse, imagine you’re in a white-water environment, setting up, initiating, and so on. By doing this, you can learn the techniques while preparing yourself for the additional demands of white water.

This is the moment you’ve been waiting for – it helps here to have a progressive structure for acquiring the manoeuvre.  Start with the initial set-up, then shift focus to getting the initiation right, before working on the release/momentum and recovery. Once you have all these elements working, start to groove the skills, remembering to practice on both sides throughout the process.

One last thing – aim to do your thinking in the eddy. Prepare for the maneuver, and then let it happen. If you don’t attain the move, reflect and target the area to be changed, and then go again.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all the best in your endeavors. See you out there!