Section 5: Rules of Play
5.1 Number of Dives
- Men's 3 m Springboard: 6 dives in the final (no DD limit).
- Women's 3 m Springboard: 5 dives in the final (no DD limit).
- Men's 10 m Platform: 6 dives in the final (no DD limit).
- Women's 10 m Platform: 5 dives in the final (no DD limit).
- Synchronized events: 5 dives — 2 with a DD limit of 2.0, plus 3 without DD limit.
5.2 Dive List Submission
Each diver submits a dive list specifying every dive they intend to perform in each round. The list must include the dive number, position letter, and degree of difficulty. Once submitted, the list cannot be changed. In individual events, a diver may not repeat a dive from the same group across their list (e.g., cannot perform two forward dives).
5.3 Degree of Difficulty (DD)
The DD is a numerical coefficient calculated from a formula published in the World Aquatics DR tables. It accounts for the dive group, number of somersaults, number of twists, body position, and starting position (running approach, standing, or armstand). Values range from approximately 1.2 (basic forward dive, straight) to 4.1+ (quad somersaults with twists). Higher DD amplifies the raw execution score, rewarding technical ambition.
5.4 Approach and Takeoff
- Forward approach (springboard): Minimum 3 steps plus a hurdle (final jump onto the end of the board). The approach must appear smooth, confident, and controlled.
- Standing takeoff (back, inward): The diver stands at the end of the board, arms at sides or above the head, and initiates the dive from a stationary position.
- Armstand (platform only): The diver assumes a controlled handstand at the platform edge and holds it momentarily before initiating the dive.
5.5 Entry
The entry into the water is the final phase of every dive and critically affects scores. The ideal "rip entry" is perfectly vertical (head-first or feet-first depending on the dive), with the body fully extended and aligned, creating minimal splash. Judges look for hands clasped and flat (head-first) or toes pointed and together (feet-first). Excessive splash, body angle deviations, or separation of limbs result in deductions.