Lap pools are not a cheap investment, which is why you want to make sure you purchase the one that is right for you the first time around. There are several different type of lap pools, as I will discuss below:

An ‘Endless Pool’ lap pool:

This is the ‘name brand’ lap pool, and is possibly the best lap pool you can buy if you want a pool that does not take up much space, can be put inside or outside, but still allows you to swim laps and exercise as you would in a normal pool.

An Endless Pool is essentially a narrow pool which is much shorter than a normal pool. Typical dimensions are approximately 7’10” by 15’, with a swimming area about 7’x13’6”. Yes, that doesn’t only sound small, that is small and amazing that you can still get a great swimming workout in such a small area. This works by using a specially designed system to propel water and create a synthetic current that you can swim against, much like you would swim against the current in a stream. You will be swimming, just not moving forward, which is why the small dimensions are possible. Furthermore, the current created by the Endless Pool lap pool does not create waves. The current really is unique in that it provides you with a swimming current that you can comfortably swim against and have it feel like other real, full-length lap pools.

There are also many different Endless Pool options. One option that I love is the Endless Pool Swim Spa, which combines the advantages of a spa with the advantages of an Endless Pool lap pool all in one!

Traditional Lap Pools:

For those people who cannot afford an endless pool, or a full size pool, then you may want to look at purchasing a traditional lap pool. Traditional lap pools are full length pools build specifically for swimming laps, and are much cheaper than full-sized or endless pools. These are great in the following situations:

· If you have only a small, skinny space available. Some people will install lap pools on the side-strip of their house since this space is usually wasted but can still fit a lap pool that is 7 feet wide. Some people also have very small back yards where this is the only option they have.

· If you want to be able to swim laps at home, but do not want to purchase a full sized pool. This way you save money and space but still have all the benefits of a lap pool.

· If you are trying to save money. However, if you are only doing this to save money but would rather have a full-sized pool, then you may want to hold of and save, or find pool financing so you can afford the pool that you want. This applies mostly to families with kids who would love having a full sized pool.

Using a Traditional Full Sized Pool

If you already have a full sized pool, be it a above-ground pool, a gunite or shotcrete pool, then there really is no need for you to purchase a lap pool unless you can afford it and would like to potentially have a pool that is dedicated for swimming laps that you can use while someone else plays in your pool. Many times pool can get crowded, with kids splashing around or sliding into the pool from the swimming pool slide. Another reason would be if you wanted to have a lap pool in your home (basement, ect.) so you could swim during the winter months, in which case installing one of the Endless Pool lap pools could be a great option.