How Dangerous Is Olympic Diving?
Olympic diving is considered a collision sport because of how hard the impact of the water is.
The 10-meter event is the equivalent to jumping off a 33-foot platform, or a 3-story building. On top of that, you are diving head first at 35 miles an hour. That will leave you with a very small margin for error. Olympians especially are doing numerous flips and twists as they approach the water, making it even more dangerous. There is a tiny margin for error, you can hit the platform, or over rotate and hit the water back or belly first. Even on the highest stage, there are still belly flops. You might be hitting the water, but due to the high velocity in which you are falling, the force is enough to break bones and dislocate joints.
Competitive divers are facing a high risk of injuring their shoulders, back, elbows, wrists, and more. Even when a dive is perfectly executed, there is still a possibility of injury. Even when hitting thA study found that after the age of 13, there is a 45% chance of having back pain within a year after competitive diving.
Overall, while there are many dangers to diving, it should be noted that when precautions are taken into account, there should be no reason to fear. Teams should develop and practice an emergency plan so that everyone will know their roles if there were to be an injury present. All members should receive a written copy so they know what to do in case of emergency.