In the early days of diving, there were 14 different platform and 20 different springboard dives. Today, there are 63 different dives on one-meter springboard, 67 different dives on three-meter springboard and 85 different dives on platform. Difficulty has advanced from the point when a double somersault from the platform was considered dangerous. Now, a flawless performance of a reverse three and a half somersault is the norm. Although some say the sport has just about reached a peak as far as the difficulty of the dives is concerned, the rate of injury is fairly low. Following guidelines for safe facilities and training practices will keep diving one of the safest sports for young athletes.
- Diving boards should be set up and maintained according to requirements.
- Spring boards should be covered along the whole length with an adequate, nonskid material.
- Spring boards should be approximately 20 inches wide and 16 feet long.
- The platform must not move and should be at least 20 feet long and 6.5 feet wide.
- The back and sides of each platform level must be surrounded by safeguard rails that will prevent divers from falling off the platform onto the deck.
- Each level of the platform should be accessible from the ground by suitable stairs.
- Pool water should be agitated, so it may be distinguished easily by the diver.
Use Smart Training Techniques
- Spotting belts are useful for enforcing proper technique and building confidence. Coaches should make sure spotting rigs are properly set up to avoid injury.
- The trampoline can be useful for teaching dives of all kinds. Not only can you save time and effort, but you can also avoid incorrect landings in the water.
- A diving board mounded on dry land over a sand pit should only be used for instruction of simple dives that require a feet-first landing.
- A Port-a-Pit™ is a net encasement filled with poly foam—it can be used to replace sand to give the diver a soft, safe landing.