Freefall Fundamentals: Master the Art of Running Waterfalls & Drops

If you've ever looked over the lip of a waterfall, heart racing, paddle steady, wondering what comes next, you'll know there's nothing in kayaking quite like that moment. If you haven't experienced this thrill yet or you want to dial your skills for bigger drops, then you will love our newest course, Freefall Fundamentals. 

We're incredibly proud to launch this course with the help of two of the world's leading waterfall kayakers: Adrian Mattern and Laura Hofberger. With decades of paddling experience between them, they've travelled the globe running first descents, tackling huge drops, and perfecting the techniques that turn a terrifying plunge into an elegant, controlled freefall.

Now, through Online White Water, they are sharing that knowledge with you.

🌊 Why We Created This Course

Many paddlers dream of running waterfalls, but few know where to start. The truth is: anyone can learn to run drops safely and confidently with the right foundation. Whether you're sending your first 1-metre step or refining your technique for a 20-metre freefall, the principles remain the same.

Freefall Fundamentals is built on that philosophy. It's not about ego, competition or chasing massive drops. It's about improving your skills, expanding your comfort zone, and learning to enjoy the unique thrill of dropping cleanly, safely and in control.

🚀 What You'll Learn

This course is packed with detailed instruction, real-world examples, and slow-motion analysis from some of the best in the sport. By the end, you'll have a clear understanding of how to approach waterfalls, mentally, physically, and technically.

Here's what we cover: 

✔️ Body Positioning in Freefall

Learn how to stay tight and composed as you drop, manage your angle, and prepare for the impact. Adrian breaks down what good form looks like and how small adjustments dramatically change your landing.

✔️ Boofing vs Plugging

Understand when to boof to skim away from a drop, and when to plug deep to soften the impact. You'll see both techniques demonstrated on Norway's iconic rivers.

✔️ Scouting & Feature Reading

We teach you how to really look at a waterfall, spotting dangerous features, understanding the different types of lip, finding safe lines, and identifying the entry angle for a tall drop.

✔️ Risk Management & Decision-Making

Running waterfalls is about understanding the equation: risk vs reward. With clear strategies for mitigating risk, you'll learn how to make smarter decisions on the river.

✔️ Angle Control & Mid-Air Adjustments

Maintaining the right angle is essential. You'll learn how to use your body, hips, and paddle to stay vertical and composed.

✔️ Visualisation & Mindset

Laura and Adrian share their personal mental techniques, how to prepare, how to stay calm, and how to find flow when it matters most.

✔️ Progression for Every Paddler

You don't need to be hitting massive waterfalls to benefit. These skills apply to every drop, big or small.

🧭 Meet Your Coaches

Adrian Mattern

Growing up in Heidelberg, Germany, Adrian began paddling at eight years old. After moving from freestyle to whitewater, he travelled internationally, eventually becoming a professional kayaker. Known for first descents, massive waterfalls and big-water expeditions, his passion shines throughout the course. Adrian's style combines deep technical knowledge with a relaxed, encouraging approach.

Laura Hofberger

Raised in Augsburg, Laura grew up kayaking with her parents. Today, she balances life as a teacher with an unwavering dedication to paddling. She brings a blend of positivity, precision and adventure spirit to every river she runs, from chilled Class III with friends to bold missions on big water. Laura's belief in accessible, joyful kayaking forms a core part of this course.

🎥 A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

The course blends practical instruction with stunning visuals of waterfalls in Norway and around the world. You'll see Adrian and Laura running everything from manageable drops to massive freefalls, all explained with clarity and humility.

And although some features in the videos are huge, there's no expectation for you to run anything outside your comfort zone.

This course is about building transferable skills, whatever size drop you choose to run.

💻 Learn at Your Own Pace

Freefall Fundamentals is completely online and fully self-paced. Rewatch lessons as often as you like, ask questions in the comments, or join our community discussions for ongoing support.

Whether you're starting with small ledges or looking to refine your approach for larger drops, you'll find guidance that meets you exactly where you are. 

Explore the full course today with our 7-day free trial.