Diving platform

Diving platform is a type of diving board used in the sport of diving. Unlike springboards, which are flexible and allow the diver to gain height, diving platforms are rigid. They are used in both competitive diving and recreational diving.

Construction

Diving platforms are typically constructed from either concrete or steel, and are covered with a non-slip surface to prevent divers from slipping. The platform is usually mounted on a larger structure, often a tower, which allows for multiple platforms at different heights. The standard heights for platforms in competitive diving are 1 metre, 3 metres, 5 metres, 7.5 metres, and 10 metres.

Use in Competitive Diving

In competitive diving, divers perform acrobatic jumps and flips from the platform into a swimming pool. The dives are judged based on factors such as the height of the dive, the form of the diver, the complexity of the dive, and the entry into the water. Diving from a platform is one of the events in the Olympic Games and other international diving competitions.

Safety

Safety is a major concern in the use of diving platforms. Divers must be trained to enter the water correctly to avoid injury. The water in the pool must be deep enough to safely accommodate the height of the dive. In addition, the platform itself must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure it is safe to use.

See Also

• Springboard
• Diving (sport)
• Olympic Games