Why Train in Diving?

Benefits of Training in Diving:

✅ Builds Explosive Strength – Strong legs and core are essential for lift and rotation.
✅ Improves Flexibility & Body Control – Essential for precise form and reducing entry splash.
✅ Develops Mental Focus – Precision and timing require calm, calculated execution.
✅ Enhances Coordination & Air Awareness – Spinning and twisting mid-air requires excellent balance.
✅ Teaches Resilience – Learning to handle failure and push through mental barriers is key.

“If you fail, learn from it, get back on the board, and dive again.” – Greg Louganis (Olympic Champion)

Essential Diving Gear

Competitive diving requires specific gear for training and performance:

✔ Swimsuit – Competition-grade suits reduce drag and allow full mobility.
✔ Swim Cap – Keeps hair out of your face and reduces water resistance.
✔ Goggles – Used during warm-ups; not allowed during competition dives.
✔ Diving Towel (Chamois) – Keeps you dry between dives and improves grip.
✔ Wrist & Ankle Wraps – Supports joints and prevents hyperextension during takeoff.
✔ Dryland Equipment – Trampoline and harness for practicing flight mechanics.
✔ Stretch Bands – Improves flexibility and strengthens key muscles.

🛒 Need recommendations? Check out our Best Diving Gear Picks for expert reviews!

Top Diving Clubs & Training Programs in Ottawa

Looking to train or compete? Here are Ottawa’s best diving clubs:

🤸‍♂️ Nepean Ottawa Diving Club (NODC) – One of the most successful clubs in Canada, producing provincial, national, and international champions.
🤸‍♂️ Carleton University Diving Club – A strong university program with a history of success at the national level.
🤸‍♂️ Ottawa National Diving Club – Offers elite training programs for all levels, from beginners to high-performance divers.
🤸‍♂️ Greater Ottawa Diving Club – Focuses on technical development and competition preparation.
🤸‍♂️ University of Ottawa Diving Team – A competitive varsity program with high-level coaching.
🤸‍♂️ Gatineau Diving Club – A bilingual club known for its strong fundamentals and competition success.

Pro Tip: Most clubs offer both recreational and competitive programs—choose one based on your experience and goals.

Best Diving Facilities in Ottawa

Ottawa is home to several high-quality diving facilities with Olympic-level equipment and professional coaching:

🏟️ Nepean Sportsplex – Features a 5m, 7.5m, and 10m platform and multiple springboards.
🏟️ Carleton University Pool – Equipped with 1m and 3m springboards and a full diving platform.
🏟️ University of Ottawa Pool – A 50m Olympic pool with dedicated diving platforms and training equipment.
🏟️ Richcraft Recreation Complex – Offers springboard diving and open training times.
🏟️ Walter Baker Sports Centre – Features multiple springboards and a 5m platform.
🏟️ Plant Recreation Centre – Provides 1m and 3m springboards for practice and training.
🏟️ Gatineau Sports Complex – A bilingual facility with professional-grade diving boards and platforms.

Pro Tip: Most competitive diving clubs have exclusive lane and board access at these facilities—check with the club for training schedules.