Learning to dive

Question
Tom Daley and Tonia Couch, have been my inspiration since they began diving, and now I want to give it a try. The problem is I do not do gymnastics and am not a very strong swimmer. I want to become really successful like Tom Daley, but because I can't do gymnastics or swim well, I may not be able to dive. However if I joined a diving class, would they help me with all three? (gymnastics,swimming,diving). To become as successful, do you recommend any diving clubs in the UK, preferably round the London and Hertfordshire area? Thanks.

Answer
You need to become a better swimmer before you start learning to dive. Diving coaches do not have the time to teach you to be safe in deep water. You have to comfortable in a pool where you cannot stand up. Enroll in a swimming class where learning in deep water is part of the instruction. Tell the teacher that you aspire to be a diver and take lessons so he or she knows in advance that you need to able to be a complete strong swimmer in deep water.

As far as gymnastics goes, it would help if you took a beginning level tumbling class so you become familiar with basic gymnastics. Trampoline classes would also help. Dry land training for divers is very important but when you are new to diving, you will probably spend most of your time in deep water.

To find a diving program in London go to this website:

www.swimming.org/britishswimming. Click on Diving and on the menu, click on Regional Managers. Contact the one closest to you and ask about diving programs.I would also click on all the other options on the menu to become familiar with the sport. Also try an American site
www.diving.about.com. Enter 'lessons' in the search box for information on how to learn to dive.

Good luck and I hope Tom Daley wins an Olympic medal but not beat any Americans!