Lykkers, do you ever feel the urge to dive into the water like a pro? Many of us who love swimming are drawn to the thrill of diving. It's not just about making a splash—it's about that magical moment of flying through the air, twisting and flipping before touching the water.

But hold on! Diving may look exciting, but it's not as easy or safe as it seems. So, before you take that leap, let's dive into some essential facts!

Why Aren't Diving Pools Common?

Ever wondered why diving pools are rare? The reason is simple—diving pools use much more water than regular swimming pools, nearly three times more! A 50x25 meter swimming pool can hold 50 to 60 people comfortably, but a diving pool can only accommodate a handful of divers at a time. Safety is a huge concern because multiple people diving at once can lead to dangerous accidents. Even when the number of participants is limited, diving itself is risky due to the heights involved and the impact of hitting the water.

The Real Dangers of Diving

Diving from heights of 5, 7.5, or 10 meters might look cool, but if you don't get your posture right, the landing can be painful—or worse. A bad entry can feel like hitting concrete, leading to serious injuries. Even 1-meter or 3-meter springboards aren't entirely safe. Since the boards have elasticity, poor posture or timing can cause a dangerous collision with the board. Many enthusiasts who think they are skilled enough try flips or inward dives, which significantly increases the risk of accidents.

Natural Diving Spots: More Thrills, More Risks

Since diving pools are rare, many of us turn to natural diving spots, like lakes, cliffs, or even reservoirs, to satisfy that craving for adventure. But these places can be unpredictable. Water depth, hidden obstacles, and strong currents can make natural diving much riskier than diving in a controlled environment.

A Quick Dive into Diving History

Did you know that diving has a long history? In China, diving can be traced back to the Song Dynasty, while in Europe, it dates to the Renaissance period. Back then, people who wanted to experience the feeling of flying had limited options—so they took to the water! Since water is a fluid that provides a natural cushion, it became the perfect platform for early adventurers to try flips and spins. Over time, these playful dives evolved into the competitive sport we know today.

When Did Diving Become an Olympic Sport?

Diving made its debut as a demonstration event at the 1900 Paris Olympics. Four years later, in 1904, it became an official Olympic sport. Soon after, women's events were added, and interestingly, female athletes often dominated the sport. Unlike sports that rely heavily on strength, diving places more emphasis on flexibility, balance, and grace—qualities where female athletes naturally excel.

Eye Problems: A Hidden Risk for Divers

Diving isn't just risky for beginners—it's also hazardous for professional athletes. One of the biggest occupational hazards in diving is eye problems. Studies show that nearly 30% of professional divers suffer from retinal issues, and most divers experience some degree of nearsightedness. But unlike shooting, where eye problems result from prolonged focus, diving damages the eyes in a different way.

Why Does Diving Damage the Eyes?

There are two main reasons why divers face vision problems. First, certain categories of diving, like handstand dives from platforms, require athletes to train extensively in an upside-down position. This increases eye pressure and raises the risk of retinal detachment. Second, the impact of entering the water, especially from a 10-meter platform, puts immense pressure on the eyes—over 10 kilograms of force at the moment of entry! This constant pressure causes vibrations inside the eye, which can eventually damage the retina.

Famous Divers Who Faced Eye Problems

Even top-tier athletes aren't immune to diving's hidden dangers. Sun Shuwei, China's first male Olympic gold medalist in diving, retired early due to a torn retina. Similarly, Guo Jingjing, one of the most celebrated female divers, faced severe eye problems early in her career. After retiring, her vision dropped to a mere 0.2, far below normal eyesight. These cases show how eye injuries can cut short the careers of even the most talented divers.

How Modern Technology Reduces Risks

Fortunately, advances in sports technology have significantly reduced the risks associated with diving. Modern high-end diving pools now feature bubble systems that reduce the impact of entering the water, lessening the strain on the eyes. Additionally, specialized diving goggles and caps offer better protection, ensuring that athletes and enthusiasts can dive with greater confidence and safety.

Final Splash: Safety First, Always!

Lykkers, diving is undeniably thrilling, but safety should always come first. Whether you're trying it for the first time or considering it as a regular hobby, be sure to follow safety guidelines, use proper equipment, and never attempt complicated moves without proper training. We're here to enjoy the thrill, not take unnecessary risks. So next time you feel like diving in—think twice, dive smart, and stay safe!