How to Do a Giant Stride Entry (With Common Mistakes)
The giant stride is one of the most common and effective entries used when diving from boats, docks, or platforms level with the water. It's simple, controlled, and works well for most divers in full gear.
Step-by-Step: How to Do a Giant Stride Entry
- Fully gear up and confirm you're cleared to enter.
If on a boat, someone in the crew will tell you when you can step up. If on your own, your buddy or dive team leader should give you the go-ahead once the area below is clear and conditions are safe. - Approach the edge with your fins on.
Stand with your toes over the edge of the platform, feet shoulder-width apart for balance. - Secure your mask and regulator.
Place the palm of your hand over the regulator and use your fingers to hold the mask lens firmly to your face. This keeps both in place during the entry. Use your other hand to hold any loose gear (SPG, console, camera, etc.). If you don't hold the loose gear, it may smack you in the funny bone and your arm will be numb for hours...don't ask me how I know. - Look straight ahead.
Keep your eyes on the horizon to maintain posture and avoid the instinct to look down mid-step. - Take a confident, wide stride.
Step forward with one leg while keeping the other planted. There is no reason to try and jump. Just step forward. The back leg will naturally lift as your body carries forward. - Hit the water upright.
Aim to enter the water vertically with legs slightly apart for stability. - Resurface and give an OK — but only if you mean it.
Once you’ve surfaced, take a moment to confirm that you are truly OK, not just reacting out of habit. Check your buoyancy, breathing, gear, and how you feel. Only then should you give the OK signal to the boat or dive leader. After signaling, move away from the entry point to clear space for the next diver.
Common Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
| Mistake | Why It Happens | How to Fix It |
|---|---|---|
| Looking down during the step | Natural curiosity or nervousness | Focus on the horizon to maintain balance and form |
| Short or hesitant step | Fear of the drop or poor balance | Commit fully — a confident stride keeps you stable |
| Feet too close together | Increases the chance of catching a fin | Keep feet shoulder-width apart for better control |
| Loose or dangling gear | Rushing or forgetting to secure accessories | Tuck away hoses, clips, and accessories before approaching the edge | Holding the mask incorrectly | Unclear training or habit | Use your palm to press the reg and fingers to hold the mask lens — don’t just pinch the mask |
| Dangling gear hits you mid-entry | Items like SPGs can swing during the jump and strike your body | Clip everything down securely — even a “harmless” dangling SPG can cause real pain |
| Not clearing the entry area | Forgetting there's someone behind you | Move away from the entry point as soon as you surface |
Final Tips
- Practice the giant stride a few times in calm, controlled environments to build muscle memory.
- Never enter the water unless the dive team confirms it's clear below — even in good visibility.
- When you surface, pause before giving the OK. Take a second to check your buoyancy, breathing, and how you feel. Don’t signal "OK" out of habit — make sure you actually are.
- If you're unsure about your form, ask your instructor or buddy to watch and give feedback after a dive.