description Jackknife Overview
Jackknife is a term used in diving and acrobatics for a straight-legged fold at the hips during an airborne movement. In a jackknife dive, the diver bends from the waist to bring the upper body toward the feet without bending the knees, then straightens before entering the water headfirst. The shape is distinguished from a tuck, which bends the knees, and is identified by the straight legs and controlled opening before entry.
help Jackknife FAQ
What is a Jackknife dive?
A jackknife is an airborne diving position in which the diver folds at the hips while keeping the legs straight. The upper body moves toward the feet before the diver straightens for entry.
Do the knees bend during a jackknife?
No. The defining shape uses straight legs while the body folds at the waist or hips. Bending the knees would change the position into a different dive shape.
How is a jackknife different from a pike?
Both positions involve a straight-legged fold at the hips, but the exact dive designation depends on the movement and body position used in the dive. In general, a jackknife describes folding and then opening before water entry.
Is jackknife used only in diving?
The term is also used more broadly in acrobatics for a straight-legged fold during an airborne movement. Diving is its best-known competitive use.
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