Rafting has been around for a long time but earlier it was not a recreational activity or done for enjoyment or excitement. Rafting was earlier used for many purposes such as transporting people from one place to another, getting medicines or food to some place, also it was used to find and hunt for food or leisure. Basically back then rafting was never considered as a form of sport or a leisure activity. Back then it was just used as a necessity. But in the 1970s everything changed as river rafting was inducted into the Munich Olympic games. That is the start from where river rafting turned into a sport and competition. After 1970s rafting gradually began increasing in popularity and fame as it was included in other major games. In the year 1997 The International Federation of Rafting began and was initiated, they held their first international Championship Rafting in the year 1999. This is how rafting changed from being a basic need to a major sport that was recognized throughout the world as being the one of the most exciting extreme sports.

In the early days as rafts were only used for basic needs such as transportation they were made from wood or logs which were bound together. But times have changed and inflatable rafts are used. They are also used by the army for surprise beach ambushes or assaults. The raft material is very sturdy and strong and contains dual layered vinyl fabrics each with their own singular chambers for air. Rafts vary in shapes and sizes, each country has their own basically designed rafts but more commonly for navigation oars or paddles are used.

Furthermore a form of rafting which is very dangerous and exciting at the same time is white water rafting. White water rafting is basically concerned with navigating and moving the boat in fast and strong currents. White water rafting should only be tried by people who have done it before because it is very risky for beginners and novices. Many novices take tips from more experienced people before going white water rafting. Furthermore due to the serious nature of the sport if basic guidelines and rules are not followed accidents are prone and liable to occur. Many accidents have occurred that have resulted in many injuries and deaths! Due to this restrictions and strictness on white water rafting has increased and one will not be able to do rafting if one does not follow the rules regarding the equipment and areas that one can navigate through. But as time has passed by, rafting has become easier due to advances in technology and safety equipment. An example would be the Colorado river, Colorado river rafting was one of the most dangerous rafting experiences ever and whole groups and teams would not return. But now novices navigate in the Colorado river and no accidents occur as Colorado river rafting has become commercialized and numerous people go there again and again to enjoy rafting.

Furthermore rafting helps in protecting rivers and other environmental areas as it raises awareness. Due to this many funds are raised and these rivers are protected by the government or environmental protection agencies. Furthermore another important point is that rafting competitions and tournaments raise funds for the host country, this gives them a reason to better preserve and take care of those rivers. So due to this they will not use these rivers for generating electricity or other things that can alter the beauty of these natural rivers and waters.

Although river rafting is a dangerous sport, there have been rapid developments in making it safer. It is the ultimate thrill and adrenaline rush. For people who seek adventure and total excitement, this is it! River rafting is emerging and being recognized throughout the world as one very interesting form of sport.