If your main objective for investing in a swimming pool is for your fitness, a lap pool may be the perfect solution for your backyard. Lap pools are also a popular choice for families that have limited space, and are still wanting a pool in their yard. The size of a lap pool is ideal for new swimmers and children as they gain confidence in the water, as the distance to swim from one side to another is shorter than a normal sized pool. A lap pool can be a smart choice for singles or couples that don’t necessarily need a large pool. Another reason people choose lap pools is that they are easier to maintain, as they are smaller in size. This means they use less water, require little effort to keep them clean, and use fewer chemicals.
What is a lap pool?
Lap pools are designed with the purpose for health and fitness. They are ideal for those wanting to work towards fitness goals and improve their technique. As the name suggests, swimming laps is the intention of a lap pool. They are generally used by serious swimmers that want an unrestricted length of water to swim in. With no curves or steps obstructing their swim. They obviously can also be used for other water sports and fitness activities as well. A lap pool can be a clever option for those who are limited in space or have a long and narrow space but still want the luxury of a pool in their backyard.
Health benefits of a lap pool:
The great thing about swimming is that anyone can do it. It’s a great form of exercise for those with limited mobility or people who are recovering from an injury as it is non weight bearing and reduces the impact on bones and joints. It can also be for those wanting to increase their cardiovascular fitness, as swimming laps is one of the best cardiovascular workouts you can do. It is a full body workout as you push against the resistance of the water. Swimming laps is a great exercise to tone up and strengthen muscles. It also burns double the amount of calories compared to walking.
Exercising can also improve mental health. As your heart rate increases, the blood pumps and releases the feel-good endorphin hormone. Swimming laps is a great way to de-stress and unwind which can be very beneficial for mental health as well. This also correlates with how swimming helps you sleep better. The soothing effects of water, combined with the energy exerted throughout the swim, shows to have positive effects on sleep.
Design and Installation:
Fibreglass lap pools are manufactured using pre-set moulds. They are constructed to be extremely strong and durable, and most companies offer extended guarantees. Lap pools are generally long, narrow and rectangular in shape and come in different sizes. They range from about 8 to 12 metres long by about 3 to 4 metres wide. The width is actually designed to be similar to a ‘lane’ or two. The depth of a lap pool is approximately 1.35 metres which is perfect to walk in, on top of giving you the ability to swim laps at an athletic level.
You can tailor your lap pool to suit your requirements. While the shape of a fibreglass lap pool cannot be customised, there are many additions you can choose:
- Smart technology- Allows you to control your pool cleaning schedule with one touch of a button from your smart device.
- Spa jets – With a multipurpose use of creating resistance when swimming laps or can be used to relax.
- Heating –Allows you to use your pool all year. Warm water in conjunction with spa jets is a fantastic way to relieve sore muscles and tension.
- Lighting – An effective way to enhance the look of your pool- especially at night time! • Gel coat finish – There are many colours you can choose for your fibreglass lap pool.
Once you have chosen the lap pool you would like for your yard, and all the necessary paperwork has been submitted to council and approved, your pool can be installed! In-ground pools are the most popular installation method. It involves excavating the ground and digging a hole where the pool will be situated. The pool is then lifted into place and levelled. The digger wil backfill the pool and compacted down. Timber boxing is then constructed around the outside of the pool, then the concrete is poured, smoothed and left to dry. Then you can put down your pavers or decking, then your pool is ready to be filled with water. Lap pools can either be installed above ground, partially above ground or inground, depending on the slope of the block, or landscaping requirements. The installation technique will vary depending on which type you choose. Installing your fibreglass lap pool is quite fast and simple. If you have easy access to your flat block, it can be installed in as little as 7 days. However, unforeseen factors such as weather, the time of year and extended council approvals can lengthen the time it takes to install your swimming pool.
Cost:
There are a lot of varying factors that can affect the total price of your new fibreglass lap pools. You can choose added extras, the landscaping and paving/decking can change the price, but the major factor will be the condition of your site. These all contribute to the overall cost. Many people assume that because a lap pool is smaller in size than a family sized pool that the price will be lower. This isn’t always the case, because a lap pool is built to the same quality standards that a family pool is and it is installed using the same construction process. To get an accurate price for your place, you should contact your local pool builder.
Lap pools have become increasingly popular over the recent years. This is because people are now more focused on their health, and backyards are getting increasingly smaller. For many people, a lap pool provides the perfect solution. Here at Barrier Reef Pools, we specialise in transforming backyards and lifestyles with our luxury award winning fibreglass pools. We manufacture and install the highest quality pools on the market. If you have any questions regarding the suitability of a lap pool for your home, give our friendly team a call, and we will help in any way we can.
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