How to Identify Dive Numbers

Dives are described by their full name (e.g. reverse 3 1/2 somersault with 1/2 twist) or by their numerical identification (e.g. 5371D), or “dive number.” 

Specific dive numbers are not random. They are created by using these guidelines:

1. All dives are identified by three or four digits and one letter. Twisting dives utilize four numerical digits, while all other dives use three. 

2. The first digit indicates the dive’s group: 1 = forward, 2 = back, 3 = reverse, 4 = inward, 5 = twisting, 6 = armstand.

3. In front, back, reverse, and inward dives, a ‘1’ as the second digit indicates a flying action. A ‘0’ indicates none. In twisting and armstand dives, the second digit indicates the dive’s group (forward, back, reverse).

4. The third digit indicates the number of half somersaults.

5. The fourth digit, if applicable, indicates the number of half twists.

6. The letter indicates body position: A = straight, B = pike, C = tuck, D = free.

Examples:
107B = Forward dive with 3 1/2 somersaults in a pike position
305C = Reverse dive with 2 1/2 somersaults in a tuck position
5253B = Back dive with 2 1/2 somersaults and 1 1/2 twists in a pike position