Fluid dynamics of Manu jumping

New Zealand has popularized a technique for creating the biggest splash: Manu Jumping. Divers fold their body in a "V formation" and snap open to a "flat formation" upon water entry to generate a large air cavity. We investigate the multiple factors that determine the characteristics of cavity formation and resultant Worthington jet, which is crucial to splash generation. Our experiments vary size, shape, and impact speed of solid bodies and their effects on the Worthington jet dynamics. We analyze Manu Jumping in humans and physical models. To study the Manu Jumping technique underwater, we created a diving robot which mimics the human technique of opening underwater to maximize cavity size. We uncover the water entry parameters and scaling laws that Manu Jumpers dive into when they create the biggest splash.