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.

One big reason for the production of pools specifically for fitness purposes is that swimming is great exercise. Not only is it an exercise which is aerobic, making it similar to walking and running, but the stress placed on the joints in swimming is much reduced since the water supports the body and absorbs some of the impact force. With fitness in mind, special pools have been created, both above ground and inground lap pools among them.

As the name would imply, lap pools are built specifically for exercise in the form of 'lap swimming'. Unique among swimming pool designs, the lap pool is usually of a rectangular shape, which is different from the circular form that is often used for recreational swimming pools. Another unique part of the design of lap pools is that they tend to be much slimmer, often only one lane in width.

Swimming is a great way to gain fitness technique because it is accessible to people of all physical abilities. It is easy on the joints and gently builds muscle without strain. Swimming, like any exercise will also reduce overall stress.

Indoor lap pools offer versatility and space savings. They may be installed in a fitness room or another room and can double as a decorative feature indoors or out.

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.

The placement of an inground lap pool is independent of whether it is indoors or outdoors. Having it indoors has the advantage of less sensitivity to outdoor temperature fluctuations, but an outdoor pool can be built to accommodate year-round usage. Having the pool heated is very popular amongst both business and residential owners and will make swimming attractive to people no matter what the season is.

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.