How to Dive Off a Diving Block

Many swimmers who are part of a swim team will be asked to dive off a diving block by the time they are 8 years old. A diving block is a square, sturdy piece of plastic material placed on top of short metal posts. The block is angled toward the water as to make your entrance into the water as easy as possible. Many people have a fear of diving blocks because they believe that they will no longer be able to perform their dive without belly flopping or otherwise messing up. In reality, it is very easy to dive off of a diving block. You just need to know the proper technique.

Instructions

    • 1

      Step up onto the diving block. Watch the area that you are walking on as you step onto the block. The steps that lead you up onto the surface of the diving block can sometimes be rather slippery, and if you are not careful, they can be very dangerous. When you get to the surface of the diving block, get a feel for it, and for your surroundings.

    • 2

      Get into your diving position. Most people feel more comfortable with the runner’s diving position, which is where the diver has one foot at the edge of the block and the other placed behind her. This makes the dive foolproof, and it also makes you dive very far out if done correctly. The other position that you can assume is where both of your feet are at the edge of the block. Pick one of the two positions, and set your feet up as explained.

    • 3

      Bring your hands to the edge of block. When it is almost time for you to dive off of the block, you need to be completely ready, which involves your hands coming to the edge of the block. You will see some small children who dive off the blocks with their arms in streamline position above their head. However, by doing so, you slow yourself down and risk disrupting your entry into the water. Grip the edge of the block with your hands wrapped around the edge. Look straight ahead as you prepare to dive.

    • 4

      Push yourself off the block with as much force as possible. Push off with your feet so that your legs are in position to give you power. Push yourself off with your arms as well. As you are flying through the air, arch your back with your hands overlapping as your upper arms squeeze your ears.

    • 5

      Upon entering the water go immediately into streamline position. Keep your arms in the same position as when you entered the water. While your arms are in this position, begin a fast and powerful scissor kick. Keep yourself going in this position for as long as you possibly can. It will move you through the water quickly and allow you to save up your energy for your swim.