Kinematic analysis of the inverted dive (B) from the 5m platform as a basis for developing qualitative gymnastics exercises

Abstract

This study aims to provide fundamental scientific data to improve reverse diving performance through kinematic analysis and to use its findings as a basis for designing a specific gymnastics-based training program. To achieve this objective, the reverse dive (B) performed by five athletes from the Saudi National Diving Team was recorded and analyzed using a two-dimensional kinematic analysis with the Kinovea software. The results revealed that successful execution of the reverse dive requires a rapid vertical elevation of the body's center of mass, increased joint angles during the take-off phase, full extension of the knee and ankle joints, and rapid flexion of the hip joint immediately after take-off. The findings also indicated that correcting these technical and biomechanical positions through repeated land-based training can contribute significantly to improving performance in the 5-meter platform reverse dive. Based on the kinematic analysis results and the investigated kinematic variables, a specific gymnastics training program was developed to enhance the movement and biomechanical requirements associated with optimal reverse diving performance.