Swimming pools are useful for many purposes. Many people, when they think of pools, think first of the lush structures provided by hotels and resorts, which exist mainly for recreation. Pools, however, are incredibly helpful in fitness. Aquatic exercise is rising in popularity; likewise, more and more pools are being constructed with exercise in mind.

A large reason why so many pools are built with fitness in mind is that swimming is a highly effective form of exercise. Not only is it an aerobic exercise comparable to walking or even running, but it is less stressful on joints because the water supports the body and reduces the force of impacts. To facilitate swimming for fitness, special pools have been designed, such as above-ground or inground lap pools.

A lap pool is a small, rectangular shaped pool that was created for the sole idea of swimming laps. The primary purpose of this pool is for exercise instead of recreational swimming. Regular swimming pools are often circular or have unique shapes, whereas the lap pools are often long and narrow. Sometimes, these pools are only one lane long - perfect for a back and forth swim.

A current is a feature of many modern pools, both the elevated type and inground lap pools. Pools with this feature of a steady stream of water in one direction, which effectively creates an endless swimming pool for the swimmer. This not only facilitates smaller construction area for the pool, but greatly increases the effectiveness of the workout of the swimmer.

Lap pools built inground can be indoor or outdoor. With the indoor versions there is the obvious benefit of not having to be effected by outdoor weather and temperature changes, but this does not mean that outdoor lap pools cannot be used all year. Heated pools are enjoyed by both private homeowners and businesses, and they create a much more comfortable swim no matter the season.

The cost of installing a lap pool depends on the size of the pool and which features are to be included. Usually, a larger pool will cost more to install. Adding features such as heating systems and automatic current will also increase the price. Most people consider the costs of installation to be a small price to pay for the exercise and personal enjoyment that they get from their pools.

Swimming pools have great benefits for fitness, and there has been a great increase in the popularity of pools for exercise. Not only is swimming an aerobic exercise, making it similar to walking and running, but the stress placed on the joints in swimming is much less since the water supports the body. With fitness in mind, special pools have been created, both above ground and inground lap pools, as well as the endless swimming pool. Depending on lap pool design, the price of installation can be very reasonable, and the benefits of physical fitness may justify that price.