Section 3: Playing Area
3.1 Diving Well Dimensions
- Minimum depth: 5.0 m (16 ft 5 in) below the 10 m platform; 3.5 m (11 ft 6 in) below the 3 m springboard; 3.0 m (9 ft 10 in) below the 1 m springboard.
- Minimum area: The clear water zone directly below each board or platform must be at least 5.0 m x 4.0 m free from obstructions.
- Ceiling height: Minimum 5.0 m (16 ft 5 in) of clearance above the 10 m platform.
3.2 Surface Agitation Systems
A mechanical surface agitation system is mandatory at all World Aquatics-sanctioned competitions. This system produces a visible disturbance on the water surface (bubbles, spray jets, or drip jets) so divers can judge their height and distance from the water during flight. Without agitation, the flat water surface can appear featureless and disorient divers during rapid rotations.
3.3 Supporting Facilities
- Hot tub / shower area: Located adjacent to the pool for divers to maintain body temperature between dives. Water temperature typically 37–40 °C (99–104 °F).
- Dry-land training: Purpose-built dryland facility with overhead spotting rigs (harnesses), trampolines, and foam pits for learning new dives safely before attempting them from height.
- Scoreboard: Electronic display visible to divers, judges, and spectators showing dive code, DD, judge scores, and running totals.