Train For Springboard Diving

By: Kathryn Gierok

Break Studios Contributing Writer

Learning to train for springboard diving can greatly improve your performance, given that a few basic guidelines are followed. One of the most important of these is practice. Those who are new to the sport should be willing to put plenty of practice time into springboard diving in order to be a successful athlete. In most cases, athletes are recommended to spend at least thirty minutes training for springboard diving during the off-season, though more time may be required during the regular season in order to maximize performance.

  1. Get a good coach. In order to be a great springboard diver, it is essential to have someone around who can teach you the basics, as well as tell you you are doing right and/or wrong. In some cases, finding a good springboard diving coach can be quite a challenge. For best results, talk to others in the field, and ask for a great reference.
  2. Increase muscular strength. Though learning how to swim is important when it comes to diving, having a great amount of body strength is essential. While all-over strength is needed in order to have the best results when training for springboard diving, the best athletes typically have a great degree of strength in their core and lower bodies. Individuals who wish to perform handstands prior to diving, however, will also need to increase strength in the shoulders and chest. Those who have never lifted weight before may want to hire a personal trainer or strength coach in order to ensure that proper form is used and accidents are avoided at all cost.
  3. Get comfortable with the diving board. Those who have never dived from a springboard before should first practice simply walking off of it, and jumping into the pool. Once they feel comfortable with this, they can begin to dive.
  4. Learn a few basic dives, such as the swan dive and the pike dive. This is especially important for those who are new to springboard diving. After a few of the basic dives have been mastered, more advanced maneuvers can be attempted.
  5. Practice. In order to get good at springboard diving, it is necessary to put in plenty of practice time. Athletes are typically encouraged to spend at least thirty minutes each day practicing during the off-season, and even more time in the regular season.
Posted on: Feb. 06, 2011