DYNAMICS OF SELECTED TOWER DIVE TAKE-OFFS

Authors

  • J. Hamill
  • D. M. Golden
  • M. D. Ricard
  • M. A. Williams

Abstract

The mechanics of platform diving, unlike those of springboard diving. have not been investigated to any great degree. Unlike the springboard, the platform provides no elastic energy to enhance the diver's momentum. At take-off the diver must achieve sufficient linear momentum to ensure the necessary height and distance to travel safely away from the platform and sufficient angular momentum to complete the required number of rotations about the transverse axis. Ground reaction forces (GRF) developed during contact with the diving platform and the body position of the diver at take-off define the magnitude and direction of the diver's momentum. The nature of rotations in springboard diving has been reported by many researchers and coaches (Fairbanks, 1963; Batterman, 1968; Stroup and Bushnell, 1969)...-tn most cases, it was felt that body Jean at take-off determined the number of rotations in the dive. Golden (1984) found that body lean at take-off increases according to the number of rotations being performed. Miller (1984) found that the height obtained in springboard diving was predominantly due to the action of the lower extremities as they accelera ted the trunk upwards. Although a number of investigators have studied springboard diving, there is an apparent Jack of information pertaining to platform diving. Furthermore, it seemes necessary to study the nature of increased rotations in platform diving. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to investigate the kinetics and kinematics of platform dive take-offs in which a rotation or multiple rotations occurred.

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Coaching and Sports Activities