Ever wonder how long lap pools are? Or what the dimensions of a lap swimming pool would be differentiate from a normal inground pool?
We have the answers to help!
For many of us, our backyards are not quite large enough to have a full-sized pool. However, if you like being in the water, and love to get your exercise done in the pool, then there may be a solution!
Why not invest in a lap pool? Is that possible? How long are lap pools?
Now, you may be concerned that you still don’t have the space for any kind of pool, but this is where we come in to help!
In this article, we will discuss the length of lap pools, as well as other dimensions such as width and depth, in order to help you determine whether or not they’re suitable for your backyard.
We may even have an alternative solution that’ll allow you some form of backyard pool after all!
If this is something that interests you, read on and let’s get into it!
What Exactly Is A Lap Pool?
A lap pool is a type of exercise pool that’s designed with one end closed off.
This means that it has no open side, which makes it perfect for people who want to swim laps without having to worry about getting wet at the sides.
Because they are specifically designed for laps, you are able to swim for a long period of time before having to turn around.
Lap pools are available in different sizes, ranging from small ones that can fit up to four adults comfortably, right through to larger models that can hold up to ten swimmers. Small lap pools can be a great backyard pool option when working with a budget as well!
They also vary in shape, with some being round, while others are square or rectangular in design.
The Pros And Cons Of A Lap Pool
If you’re thinking about getting a pool, and a lap pool looks like the most likely option for you, then you may want to know the advantages and disadvantages of them before investing in one.
Let’s dive right in:
Pros Of A Lap Pool
- Lap pools work very well in narrow backyards.
- Lap pools can be installed in vinyl, acrylic sheets, or concrete.
- Lap pools are an aesthetically pleasing feature of a backyard, with the correct lighting and landscaping.
- Lap pools are excellent for swimmers or those who like to exercise in the water.
- Lap pools can be customized with additional features, such as a resistance current or heat.
Cons Of A Lap Pool
- Lap pools are a lot less versatile than regular swimming pools. There is less room for relaxation and pool party fun.
- The length and width of your lap pool depend on the size of your backyard, and they feel the impact of limitations.
- Lap pools leave no real option for a nice sitting area, any internal steps, or other functional and decorative features.
The Length Of A Lap Pool
Now, how long are lap pools? First, your backyard lap pool does not need to be any specific size, which is great for those with smaller backyards!
So, you are someone who can install a swimming pool of any length. If you have the room, you can install an Olympic-sized pool (50m length x 25m width). However, if you don’t have room, you can still install a smaller pool.
A lap pool can be any length you want, but generally they will range from 40 ft to 80 ft in length, and all you need to ensure is that you can swim the number of strokes that you want to before turning around.
For example, if you want to do 50 lengths per session, you could install a 20m (65 ft) lap pool.
You would simply swim 50 times before stopping and turning around. The same goes for lap pools that are longer than 20m (65 ft). When designing or planning the installation of your lap pool, make sure you know how close a pool can be to your house as well!
Really, it doesn’t matter how big or small your pool is, because you can always swim the required number of laps – it all comes down to preference.
The Width Of A Lap Pool
When it comes to installing a lap pool, you should make sure that you take into account the width of the pool.
Think about the normal width of a competitive pool lane. That is around 8.2 ft wide, or 2.5 meters. So, you will want your pool to be at least around this width.
Anything smaller than this size will create too much turbulence in the water during your swims, and you can even end up bumping into the sides of the pool a lot.
A wider swimming pool will allow you to swim faster and make your workout more convenient.
The Depth Of A Lap Pool
Depth is another important factor when it comes to installing a pool in your backyard. Especially if you are installing the new inground pool on a sloped backyard.
It needs to be deep enough so that you can stand upright in the middle of the pool.
Just like with lap pools that are too narrow, lap pools that are not deep enough make the water more turbulent, and you may end up dragging your knuckles on the bottom of the swimming pool.
You will need a lap pool that is at least 4 ft deep.
If you want to practice shallow diving, then your lap pool will need to be at least 6 ft deep. For those with diving boards, we recommend 8-9 ft deep.
Alternatives To Lap Swimming Pools
If you still do not have the space for a lap pool, there’s no need to worry!
There is a way to have a pool in your garden for your much-loved water exercises. A great alternative to lap pools is a stationary pool!
Having a stationary pool means you can cut the length of a normal lap pool in half. It works by using a water pump to create a current.
You can then swim in place in this current and work out that way! If you are looking for a smaller, more lounge-related option, check out plunge pools!
Our Final Thoughts On How Long Lap Pools Should Be
We hope you enjoyed our article diving into answering the question “how long are lap pools?” Lap pools are a specific type of swimming pool that is a great option for serious swimmers, those who enjoy lap swimming, and those who like to exercise in water but do not have any space in their backyard for a regular swimming pool.
However, it is still important to look into lap pool dimensions before investing in one.
The length of a lap pool can vary, and it comes down to preference. However, the width and depth of a lap pool are a little more specific.
Width-wise, a lap pool needs to be at least 2.5 meters long, or else it will be too narrow. Similarly, a lap pool needs to be at least four ft in-depth to be worth having.
If your backyard is still too small to meet these requirements, then there’s no need to worry as there are plenty more pool options to ensure you can have a great summer!
One of these is a stationary pool, which uses a pump to create a current and is great for exercise. So, no matter if you choose a normal length lap pool or a stationary swimming pool, you’ll still be swimming laps this season one way or another!
Curious on how many swimming laps are in 1 mile for a 50 meter length lap pool? Enjoy the video below to find out!
Hello, I am a writer and marketing specialist in Kansas City, MO. My love for swimming pools started as a child when I would visit my aunt & uncle’s inground swimming pool on a frequent basis over the summer. Since then I have taught swimming lessons at a Boy Scout Camp, participated in the full setup, installation and maintenance of my father’s inground swimming pool, as well as enjoyed constantly researching everything there is to know about swimming pools for 5+ years. I enjoy all water related sports, being part of the online swimming pool community and always learning new things!
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