If you love the water and are always looking for ways to spice up your time in the pool, why not try diving? Diving is an exciting sport and has been sought after in the Olympics for many years. Its actual meaning? Acrobatically jumping into the water from a height or distance above the water. While it can be dangerous, if it is done properly and with the right training, it can be an amazing experience.
If it is possible, learning to dive when you are young is the best way to go. Youur body is the most flexible at a young age, this will help you to learn how to dive and improve your technique. Diving requires that you be extremely flexible and in excellent shape, very similar to that of a gymnast. In order to learn to dive, you first need to understand the anatomy of a dive. There are four types of dives, layout position, pike position, tuck position and free position. The layout position is when your body is held straight like an arrow. In pike position, your body will be folded at the waist, no where else. Tuck position has your body curled into a ball. Your chin will be touching your knees and your heels your hips. The last position, free position, is more relaxed and suitable for twisted diving. There are also positions such as forward, backward, inward and reverse. These depend on your starting position and how your rotate during the dive.
When you begin diving, you will probably want to engage in competitive diving. This type of diving allows you to match your skills against other divers and be graded and judged on your technique. When you are scored during a dive match, you will be judged on your takeoff, flight an entry into the water. Each of these aspects is worth three points. The judges then have another point to use at their discretion.
Learning to dive takes a great deal of determination and hard work. If you are interested in learning, you should first have a doctor check you out and determine that your body is in good condition to dive. Once you have done this, finding a diving coach is important. They can show you the proper techniques and skills necessary to be a successful diver and stay safe. Who knows, you may even be in the Olympics some day!
Sydney Garrison is an avid cyclist and sports enthusiast. She is also a partner in an online bike rack store.