This study used optimisation procedures in conjunction with an 8-segment torque-driven computer
simulation model of the takeoff phase in springboard diving to determine appropriate subjectspecific
strength parameters for use in the simulation of forward dives. Kinematic data were
obtained using high-speed video recordings of performances of a forward dive pike (101B) and a
forward 2½ somersault pike dive (105B) by an elite diver. Nine parameters for each torque
generator were taken from dynamometer measurements on an elite gymnast. The isometric torque
parameter for each torque generator was then varied together with torque activation timings until
the root mean squared (RMS) percentage difference between simulation and performance in terms
of joint angles, orientation, linear momentum, angular momentum, and duration of springboard
contact was minimised for each of the two dives. The two sets of isometric torque parameters
were combined into a single set by choosing the larger value from the two sets for each parameter.
Simulations using the combined set of isometric torque parameters matched the two performances
closely with RMS percentage differences of 2.6% for 101B and 3.7% for 105B. Maximising the
height reached by the mass centre during the flight phase for 101B using the combined set of
isometric parameters and by varying torque generator activation timings during takeoff resulted in
a credible height increase of 38 mm compared to the matching simulation. It is concluded that the
procedure is able to determine appropriate effective strength levels suitable for use in the
optimisation of simulated forward dive performances
