Back Pike Meaning in Diving

A back pike is a body position used during a backward rotating dive. The diver keeps their legs straight and locked at the knees during flight. They bend at the waist to bring their chest toward their thighs. This shape resembles a folding pocket knife as the athlete moves through the air. The hands often grasp the back of the legs to hold the form. This position is more difficult to rotate than a tuck but looks more elegant. An example is a back one and a half somersault in pike. Straight legs and pointed toes are essential for receiving high scores from judges. The diver must rapidly unfold their body to prepare for the water entry. Keeping the head in a neutral position helps the diver maintain balance. This body shape is a standard requirement in many competitive diving lists.