Elements of the Dive Judging Competing Synchro Difficulty Glossary Types of Dives Of the six dive types, the first four involve rotating in directions relative to the board and starting position. The fifth includes any dive with a twist. The final group begins with an armstand.   Forward Group The diver faces the front of the board and rotates toward the water. Dives in this group vary from the simple front dive to the difficult forward four and one half somersault.   Backward Group All dives in the backward group begin with the diver on the end of the board with back to the water. The direction of rotation is away from the board.   Reverse Group Formerly called "gainers," these dives begin with the diver facing the front of the board and rotating toward the board.   Inward Group Formerly called "cutaways." The diver stands on the end of the board with back to the water and rotates toward the board.   Twisting Group Any dive that uses a twist (excluding armstands) is included in this group. There are four types: forward, backward, reverse and inward.   Armstand Group Here the diver assumes a handstand position on the edge of the platform before executing the dive. This position is not used on the springboard.   Positions Divers use one or more of the four body positions during each dive:   Pike The legs are straight with the body bent at the waist. Like the straight position, arm placement is dictated by the particular dive or by the choice of the diver.   Straight No bend at the waist or knees. Depending on the dive, there may be an arch in the back. Arm placement is the diver’s choice or is defined by the dive performed.   Tuck Body is bent at the waist and knees, with thighs drawn to the chest and heels kept close to the buttocks. Feet and knees should be kept together and toes should be pointed.     Free Indicates the diver’s option to use any of the above three positions, or combinations thereof, when performing a twisting dive.