The jump itself can be broken down into three parts, the launch, mid air and water entry. Everyone has their own style and flare; there are however some basic rules you need to follow to get started. Once again, you must start from smaller jumps to learn how you and your body react to the jump. Take your time and you will soon find what works best for you.

The Launch

The key to a successful launch is firm footing (ensure you test the foot locations prior to launch) and confidence (a lack of confidence can often lead to body rotation in the air).

The landing site will dictate what can be achieved at launch, some people prefer just to step off and let gravity do its thing, others prefer to gain extra height or launch-pad clearance by springing upwards and outwards from the launch site. It is recommended not to take a run-up, especially on uneven ground and be wary of overhead obstacles.

Nearly all jumps are completed feet first. Diving only takes places in well known locations when the tide is at its highest point, and only from the lower platforms (around 5 metres). If going in head first takes your fancy, then there is a whole other sport waiting for you!

Mid Air

This is usually the point where most people like to scream!

Depending on the landing site and launch site, it is possible to add flare to your jump, mid air. But when starting out it is best that you go straight into your water entry position direct from launch. It is imperative that you take your time to learn how your movement affects you in mid air. Uncontrolled flailing of arms or legs could begin rotation, which in most cases will lead to poor water entry.

You will most likely find that different techniques work for different people within your team, some of our team prefer to tuck their legs up (feet to bum) as it helps to stop the rotation (others in the team find it has the opposite effect).

Water Entry

In most cases, you want your water entry to be as smooth as possible. The amount of splash you create is often an indication on your success.

You want to enter the water in a perfectly vertical position, with your feet together, knees slightly bent and your arms by your side (some people prefer to have their arms directly above their head).

Additional things to think about include pointing your feet and hands and looking straight ahead (looking at the water means your face isn’t upright and your likely to hurt it). Some people also prefer to use one hand to hold their nose, if you need to do this, ensure your arm is tucked into your body or you may inadvertently punch yourself as you enter the water.

Advanced techniques for more technical jumps include presenting flat hands and/or arms to the water to reduce depth penetration, but this should not be attempted until you are completely comfortable with the height you are jumping from and the depth of the water below you.

Take your time and have fun, you will be amazed what you can achieve.

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