technique changes

Question
Hi i was just woundering how techniques for diving platform and springboard have changed over the past 10 years, such as the hand position for entry etc. And also what types of equipment is used during training and competition, such as special swimmers..much appreciated, thanks for you time

Answer
Kate -

Diving techniques have not changed much in the last 10 years. The hand position for entry remains the same - grabbing one hand on top the other so that the bottom hand palm is facing the water to open a 'hole' for the rest of the body to go through. Divers just have to be more exact in how they do it. Some 'rip' with a little splash but the best ones rip the entry with no splash at all.

The diving equipment remains the same for training and competition:
the Duraflex Maxi 'Cheese Board', a trampoline and dry board with overhead spotting rig, a 'bubbler' system under the 3 meters and platforms and the same old Speedo suit !!

The major thing that coaches and divers are doing now is stressing dryland conditioning to have strong stomach muscles and great flexibility in their shoulders, lower back and legs to prevent injuries. Strong wrists are also important as that is part of the body that undergoes a lot of stress on rip entries. It is injuries that prevent a lot of divers from achieving their goals. This type of training is done at an early age for new divers and is a big part of older divers regular training.

Tom Trapp