In the heat of the summer, getting exercise in can seem like a bigger task than normal. Rather than enjoying the fresh air and sunlight, the heat drives many to gym memberships in an air conditioned (albeit often crowded) room.
One way to kick the gym membership and return to the open air for your daily workout is to invest in a lap pool. Read on for more information about lap pools and why they may just be your new perfect fit.
What is a lap pool?
Lap pools are large pools that are similar to traditional swimming pools. However, they have the distinct difference of being long and thin rather than circular or square like a traditional pool. A lap pool’s rectangular shape is what makes it perfect for exercising in small or narrow backyards. Its length makes it easy to swim laps, while its narrow width means it can fit more easily in many spaces. This shape also makes it look more sleek and aesthetic than a traditional, family-style pool. Apart from that general distinction, the term “lap pool” is relatively flexible and can be customised to fit your wishes.
Generally, an Olympic lap pool is defined as being 50 metres long with lanes that are just 1.8 metres wide. However, this is not realistic for many personal lap pools. Most clients wish to have their lap pool installed in a shorter length, with some choosing a pool as short as eight metres. Likewise, while Olympic pools can have narrower lanes separated by soft ropes, it is a better option for a pool with hard sides to be wider than the standard 1.8 metres. For that reason, many clients choose to make a wider lane for themselves. That way, they can freely complete all strokes without worrying about hitting the sides. It is recommended that you build your lap pool at least 2.5 metres wide to avoid this.
However, there are no rules for a lap pool, and your pool can be anything you want it to be. Our team can help you find the right size and qualities for your pool so that it fits your lifestyle in the best way possible.
How much does a lap pool cost?
A common misconception about lap pools is that lap pool prices ought to be much lower than regular swimming pool prices. However, the cost of installing a lap pool is actually comparable to that of installing a full-size pool.
There are a wide variety of types and styles of lap pools available, so it makes sense that lap pool prices would vary substantially. You can generally expect that your lap pool will cost between $40,000 and $65,000. The main influencer in terms of cost is the length and width of your pool, although add-ons and customisations can certainly affect the bottom line as well.
While those without budget limitations have endless options for their pools, the more cost-savvy buyer can absolutely find a lap pool that fits their needs as well as their budget. One of the best ways to cut down on the cost of the pool is to limit its length. As we mentioned, an Olympic lap pool is 50 metres, but most clients do not need nearly that much space. By cutting the length, you can easily save thousands of dollars and have a lap pool that fits nicely in your own backyard. If you’re unsure what size your lap pool should be or whether you should invest in a concrete or fibreglass lap pool, we’d be happy to walk you through the process of choosing the pool that makes sense for you.
What features can I add on to my lap pool?
When considering costs, there are many additional features that can be built into your pool so that you are able to use it as comfortably and as frequently as possible. One common additional feature is a heating system so that you can continue to use the pool for exercise regardless of the season. Adding a heating system to your lap pool ensures that you get the most bang for your buck from your investment.
Another common addition is a cover for the pool. A cover means the rain will never come between you and a work out; it’s also great for keeping the sun off of your skin during the hottest months, and can help to keep heat in if you do choose to install a heating system, which is why these two features are often paired together. By trapping the heat, you can save money from your electric bill, so the cover pays for itself in the long run. This addition also takes away the pressure to build your lap pool in an indoor setting, so you get the outside experience without having to negotiate with the weather on a daily basis.
Another common add on is pool lighting. Installing pool lights allows you to comfortably swim at night. This simple feature is another easy but effective way to ensure that you can use your pool as often as possible.
How deep will I need to build my lap pool?
Just as the width and length of a lap pool can vary, the depth of your pool can be customised to fit your preferences as well. The standard depth of a lap pool is 1.5 metres. This is a good depth for safely jumping in, but it is typically shallow enough that the user can easily stand in the water. Being able to stand in the pool opens up the possibility of completing water aerobics or other activities in the water. However, 1.5 metres is not an appropriate depth for diving of any sort. If you intend to dive into your pool, talk to your pool building expert to determine an appropriate depth and length.
Are lap pools more popular than traditional pools?
The narrow shape of lap pools makes them look sleek and elegant, and this appearance can make many believe that lap pools belong in the mansion of the super-rich rather than in a suburban backyard. However, studies show that these pools are chosen by people of all financial backgrounds. In areas where homeowners have large yards, full-sized swimming pools still tend to be more common. However, given that many yards in Australia are small, oddly shaped, or contain difficult terrain, lap pools continue to grow increasingly popular here. Lap pools allow homeowners to enjoy the experience of having a private pool without having to sacrifice their entire backyard. Like traditional pools, lap pools substantially increase the value of your property—so the narrower pool shape does not lead to a diminishing return.
How do I get into my lap pool?
Because lap pools are typically used for exercise rather than recreation, it is not necessary for them to have stair access like an everyday family pool would. Instead, the best way to maximise space in the pool is to build stairs into the wall so that no swimming space is lost. Another alternative is offset steps within the pool, which are a great option because they take up less space than traditional steps. Both of these options will include a stainless steel rail for maximum safety when entering and exiting the pool. Because the lap pool is much smaller than a traditional pool, these methods of entrance are better suited to this pool type than a traditional staircase would be, which could cause issues when swimming in such a limited space.
Is swimming in a lap pool good exercise?
For many, the appeal of a lap pool is that it is a great way to get your exercise in for the day. You can easily workout in your own backyard without having to sweat, and you will be able to avoid crowded gyms and membership fees. Swimming is one of the best whole-body workouts there is, and is a high-intensity exercise option that is a great fit for those who have issues with their joints. This is because it is much easier on the body and does not put pressure on the joints in the way that running or other forms of exercise might. Swimming helps to build bone mass, burns lots of calories, and the water resistance is great for strength training. It’s also a great exercise for weight loss, as well as for helping to train your body to maintain oxygen levels, and preventing the onset of diseases like osteoporosis. Whether you are looking for a new way to exercise or have been swimming for years, building a lap pool will help you to get your day’s workout in easily and comfortably without having to leave your driveway.
Is my lifestyle right for a lap pool?
Because lap pools are so customisable, we believe that anyone can design a pool that best suits their lifestyle. Whether you have lots of free time to spend in the water, or even if your schedule is fully packed, we feel that we can find the right pool to fit your lifestyle, so that you get as much use out of it as possible. Lap pools offer a certain sleek look that will upgrade any backyard, and this can pay off hugely should you ever choose to sell. The addition of such a unique feature will make your home stand out far above the rest, and that can make your property value soar.
Building a lap pool is also a way to commit to yourself to investing in your own health and wellness. By making it easier than ever to get a workout, you are more likely that you will do so each day, and this can do wonders for your body and for your general health. One of the greatest advantages overall, however, is that having easy access to a pool can be a great way to enjoy each day as it comes, cooling off in the heat and making memories throughout the years. We feel that lap pools are a great choice for both exercise and recreation, and so you are sure to use it frequently for a wide array of purposes. Building a lap pool is an investment in your health, in your property, and in yourself that will pay off every single day.
How can I buy a lap pool?
Here at Natural Pools, we offer a wide variety of lap pools for sale. For more information on starting your lap pool project, get in touch with us today!
