Some people choose a backyard swimming pool so the whole family can splash the summer away. Others want a swimming pool for the fitness benefits it offers. If your goal in a backyard pool is exercise first and foremost, consider the installation of a lap pool. This long, narrow basin can provide plenty of opportunity for workouts and can still be a fun place for family and friends to splash around on hot summer afternoons. We have tips for installing a lap pool in your backyard that will ensure your pool project is a successful one.

Dimensions

Lap pools typically come in a fairly standard size to ensure you get an adequate workout space. The length of the average lap pool runs between 40-75 feet. The 75-feet mark is required if you want to swim full 25-yard laps. Width of a lap pool can run between eight and 10 feet, and the depth of the pool needs to be at least 3 ½ feet. These dimensions will give you the best space for a workout and still provide a spot for an inflatable lounger when the situation calls for relaxing. One advantage to a lap pool is that it typically doesn't require as much water to fill the basin. However, you need to make sure you have enough space in your backyard to accommodate the longer length of the pool.

Types

Lap pools offer the same choices as any other type of pool. A gunite lap pool ensures durability, although this material is usually the most expensive as well. Gunite pools begin with an excavated hole that is filled with a structure of rebar. The gunite mixture is then sprayed onto the metal structure, creating the walls and floor of the pool. Fiberglass pools come in pre-constructed shells that are placed into a hole in your backyard. These pools also offer lap pool choices. A vinyl liner can be used in a pre-dug hole that is treated with sand or a concrete mixture. The vinyl is snapped into place and filled with water. You can even find above ground lap pools that are less expensive and easy to install.

Ladder or Steps

Your lap pool will require a ladder or steps to get into the water. However, you don't want those steps to interfere with the dimensions of the pool so you are unable to swim complete laps. Keep the steps or ladder off to the side for best placement. Some people also choose to have an extra section of pool installed to the side of the laps that allows a point of entry and splashing room. An L-shaped pool would be a good example. Gunite and fiberglass pools can incorporate steps into the body of the pool. Other pools may require the installation of a ladder to make entry easier.

A lap pool provides a two-fold function of water play for the whole family and excellent workouts for the fitness gurus of the clan. Lap pools require less water and are easier to heat, due to the shallowness of the basin. Check out your options for a lap pool and enjoy your summer exercise right in your own backyard.