Whitewater Within
Transform the paddler. Not just the paddling.
Most paddlers believe the biggest challenge is the rapid in front of them.
Often it isn't.
It's the hesitation before peeling out.
The memory of a difficult swim.
The pressure to perform.
The voice inside that whispers, "I'm not ready."
After more than three decades of teaching whitewater kayaking, I've learned that the greatest breakthroughs rarely come from learning another paddle stroke.
They happen when something shifts within.
Whitewater Within combines world-class whitewater instruction with transformational coaching to help paddlers move beyond fear, build lasting confidence, and trust themselves on the river.
The river becomes more than a classroom.
It becomes a place to discover what's possible.
This is more than a kayak clinic.
You'll absolutely improve your technical skills.
We'll work on the techniques that matter most for your goals—whether that's developing a reliable roll, refining your river reading, building confidence in running rapids, surfing, boofing, or preparing for your next big trip.
But technique is only part of the picture.
Together we'll explore the patterns that may be limiting your performance:
Fear after a difficult swim
Hesitation in rapids
Lack of confidence
Performance anxiety
Overthinking
Recovering after injury
Self-doubt
Learning to trust yourself again
The Whitewater Within Method
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Awareness
Before we change your paddling, we uncover what's really happening.
Together we'll identify the habits, beliefs, and patterns that influence how you show up on the river.
Because you can't transform what you don't understand.
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Transformation
Using personalized coaching, technical instruction, visualization, nervous system regulation, video review, and intentional practice, we'll create meaningful change both on and off the water.
The goal isn't simply to paddle harder rapids.
It's to become the paddler you already have the potential to be.
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Integration
Real confidence isn't built in a single moment.
You'll leave with a personalized practice plan, written coaching summary, video feedback, and practical tools you can continue using long after the intensive ends.
Because lasting transformation happens through integration—not information.
Who This Is For
Whitewater Within is designed for paddlers who want more than technical instruction.
This work is for you if you:
Know you have the skills but hesitate when it matters most.
Want to rebuild confidence after a difficult swim or injury.
Feel stuck despite taking clinics or lessons.
Are preparing for an important river trip.
Want to move beyond fear and paddle with greater trust, confidence, and freedom.
Whether you're progressing from Class II to III, preparing for Class IV, or simply wanting to rediscover the joy of paddling, each experience is designed around your individual goals.
Private Whitewater Intensives
Two-Day Intensive
An immersive coaching experience designed to help you make meaningful breakthroughs both technically and mentally.
Includes:
Personalized pre-trip planning
Land-based performance coaching
Two full days of private instruction in Coloma, California
Video review
Written coaching summary
Personalized practice plan
Investment: $1,200
Signature Intensive
For paddlers looking for deeper transformation.
Includes:
Three private coaching days in Coloma, California
Personalized preparation
Written coaching summary
Video review
Follow-up online coaching sessions
Ongoing support as you integrate what you've learned into your paddling and your life
Starting at $2,800
Meet Polly
Polly Green has spent more than 35 years exploring rivers around the world.
She is a former World Championship Freestyle finalist, two-time New Zealand National Champion, American Canoe Association instructor, expedition paddler, award-winning filmmaker, and whitewater coach.
She has paddled in more than twenty countries, completed first descents in Bhutan and Vietnam, and led expeditions across the globe.
After decades of coaching, Polly recognized that the greatest breakthroughs weren't simply technical.
They happened when paddlers transformed their relationship with fear, confidence, and themselves.
Whitewater Within was born from that realization.
Begin Your Journey
If you're ready to paddle with greater confidence, freedom, and trust, I'd love to help you take the next step.
What Clients Experience
“You are the absolute coolest. I feel so lucky to have learned this sport from you. You make me feel so safe and cool, and like I want to do this forever.I will always think of you when I do! And also every time I remind myself to focus on my destination. Thank you!”
— Taylor Heisley-Cook (Bluebird)“I appreciate your direct, calm teaching style. You were able to help us be confident in hitting the river- and ensured a successful trip. This has been a life changing week with you and the team. Thank you for your guidance.”
— Mozz“Thank you so much for leading me down the First Descents trip! I really enjoyed learning from you and felt safe and prepared the whole time. Your patience, kindness, and encouragement truly allowed me to breathe and paddle through to get where I needed to be - a lesson to carry with me through whatever river journeys of life come next. Thank you so much!”
— Nebula