Starting Platforms shall be firm and give no springing effect. The height of the platform above the water surface shall be from 0.5 metre to 0.75 metre. The surface area shall be at least 0.5 metre x 0.5 metre and covered with non-slip material. Maximum slope shall not be more than 10°. The platform shall be constructed so as to permit the gripping of the platform by the swimmer in the forward start at the front and the sides.