How to Forward Half-Twist Dive From a Springboard

Sometimes known as "the great seperator," forward-twisting dives tend to be the most difficult of the basic springboard dives. Done properly, this dive can set you apart from other divers.

Difficulty: Moderately challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Swimming Trunks
• Swimsuits
• Swimming Caps
• Swimming Ear Plugs
• Swimming Goggles
• Swimming Nose Clip
• Swimsuits

1. Master forward layout and back layout dives before you even think about the forward half-twist dive.

2. Begin the dive exactly the same as a forward layout.

3. Swing your arms over your head as you ride the bend of the springboard, but as you do, point your right arm toward the far end of the pool while pulling your left arm above your head and backward, causing your body to twist to the left as you leave the board (this is for a "left twist;" reverse the sides for a right twist). This is the first quarter of your twist.

4. Lift your legs up into the air and allow your arms to drop slightly to the sides, extended out from the shoulders. Lean slightly toward your left arm to keep your body twisting into the back layout position.

5. Tilt your head back to see the water. Your right arm will be pointing at the water.

6. Move your left arm over to meet your right arm over your head, completing the last quarter of your half twist.

7. Enter the water vertically with your arms extended over your head and your body straight, just like a back layout dive.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the arm movements in front of a mirror before you try the dive on the springboard. One arm stretches forward while the other reaches back behind your head. Practice until you are familiar and don't need to think about it while you are springing.
• Do not begin your twist until you are moving upward after your press on the board.
• Attempt the forward half twist only after you have mastered the forward and backward layout dives, and only under the supervision of a skilled diver.
• If you feel like you are going to land flat on your back, tuck into a ball to avoid the sting of a flop. But don't worry if you do flop, the sting only lasts a few moments.

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on 11/22/2005 When doing the half twist flip you may have trouble with your legs going over your head, simply tighten all the muscles from your butt down. It really helps!