It takes a lot of practice to learn how to dive properly (in a diving-safe pool). Alternatively, there is one type of pool-jump that residents of Surprise and across Arizona can master quickly. It’s not judged on technique or skill, but instead on your splash. It’s the cannonball.

Remember, before attempting any jump, to follow normal pool safety guidelines, including always swimming with a buddy.

Here are the rules for getting the largest splash from your cannonball:

THE TAKEOFF

Make sure the side of the pool you jump into is safe. Find the deepest part of the pool, and look to see that the ground is dry and no one is near you in the water. You only need two or three steps for the takeoff. The higher you jump, the larger the splash that you will create. You want to aim for height, while also being careful that you are a safe distance from the wall.

THE PROCEDURE

The more speed you create, the more water that will splash. Jump as high as you can so your body can accelerate before it hits the water. When you get into the air, pull your legs into your chest and secure them with your arms. Hold them tight so you keep the position until your body immerses fully underwater. The goal is to turn your body into a dense, symmetrical sphere.

THE SPLASH

Try to land straight down into the water. The closer you are to a 90-degree angle, the larger the splash you will make. Aim to keep that perfect sphere shape and land on the bottom of your feet. If you do it correctly, you will create a pocket of water that sprays in every direction around you.

Practice and modify what works best for you after each jump. And remember, the goal of the cannonball is to make a big splash. If other people are hanging around the pool, they can’t complain when they get wet!

Read more on how to create a bigger cannonball splash here:

Kerplop! The Physics of a Cannonball Splash

WikiHow: How to Do a Cannon Ball into the Water