What is the average size of a lap pool?

The average size of a lap pool can vary depending on the purpose it is intended to serve. Lap pools are designed for swimming laps, usually for exercise, fitness, therapy, or sport training. Determining the average size depends on analyzing the different dimensions recommended for lap pools based on their primary use.

Lap Pool Dimensions for Exercise

For general exercise lap swimming, health organizations and swimming experts often recommend a minimum length of 25 yards. This equals 75 feet or 22.86 meters. However, they typically recommend at least 40-45 feet or 12-13.5 meters in width. This allows for an adequate number of strokes per lap for a good workout. Here are some common recommended lap pool sizes for exercise:

• 25 yards long x 45 feet wide
• 25 meters long x 13 meters wide
• 82 feet long x 45 feet wide

These dimensions allow two to four swimmers to share the lap pool comfortably during exercise swimming. The minimum length supports approximately 12-15 strokes per 25-yard lap, sufficient for endurance training. The 45-foot width gives each swimmer enough personal space.

Lap Pool Dimensions for Fitness

For group fitness lap swimming, like water aerobics, aqua jogging, or swim classes, a larger width is recommended. Here are some typical lap pool sizes for fitness use:

• 25 yards long x 60 feet wide
• 75 feet long x 60 feet wide
• 25 meters long x 18 meters wide

The wider pools accommodate more people sharing the space during fitness activities. The larger size allows instructors to set up exercise stations and give participants adequate room to move freely. The minimum 25-yard length still allows for some lap swimming if desired.

Lap Pool Dimensions for Competition

Official competition lap pools conform to specific Olympic-approved dimensional standards. These regulations help ensure fair and consistent competitive conditions. Here are the required dimensions for Olympic competition lap pools:

• 50 meters long x 25 meters wide
• 164 feet long x 82 feet wide

This allows for a standard course of 50 meters for events like freestyle or backstroke races. Pool depth must be at least 2 meters throughout, or about 6.5 feet. There must also be adequate lane width and other specifications to qualify for official competition sanctioning.

Lap Pool Dimensions for Therapy

For therapeutic lap swimming, like rehabilitation after injuries or recovery from surgery, smaller pools are sometimes used. Here are some typical therapy lap pool sizes:

• 20 yards long x 4-5 yards wide
• 60 feet long x 12-15 feet wide

The shorter length allows for easier mobility for those with limited physical capability. The shallow depth and warmer water also aid therapeutic exercise. These compact therapy pools can fit well in physical therapy offices or hospitals.

Standard Lap Pool Lengths

Based on the common dimensions above, most lap pools fall into standard length categories:

• 25 yards or meters – minimum for general fitness
• 45-50 meters – Olympic competition size
• 60-75 feet – accommodates more swimmers
• 20 yards – shorter pools for therapy

The 25-yard or 25-meter pool is the most common minimum for basic swimming exercise. Pools built to 50-meter Olympic specifications are used for competitive swim training and events. And 60-75 foot lengths allow larger groups to share the pool.

Metric Conversions

25 yards = 22.86 meters

50 meters = 164 feet

Standard Lap Pool Widths

The width of lap pools can range from mini therapy pools to Olympic sized. Here are some of the most common widths:

• 4-5 yards – compact therapy pools
• 12-15 feet – narrow exercise lap lanes
• 25 meters – Olympic competition width
• 45-60 feet – wider for group fitness

For basic lap swimming exercise, a width of at least 12-15 feet per lap lane allows adequate room to swim comfortably. Wider pools of 45 feet or greater help accommodate more swimmers at once.

Metric Conversions

12 feet = 3.66 meters

15 feet = 4.57 meters

45 feet = 13.72 meters

60 feet = 18.29 meters

Average Lap Pool Size

Considering the various common lengths and widths above, a medium-sized lap pool is generally:

• 25 yards long
• 45-60 feet wide

This allows for approximately 3 lap lanes of 15 feet width, suitable for up to 6-8 swimmers simultaneously. The 25 yard length is sufficient for basic swimming exercise.

Lap Pool Sizing Considerations

There are a few other factors to consider when determining lap pool size:

• Ceiling height – Adequate height is needed above and beyond the water surface dimensions, often 8-10 feet.
• Use frequency – Pools intended for regular/heavy use should be larger to accommodate demand.
• Amenities – Additional pool features like diving boards require further length and safety clearances.
• Decks/surrounds – Generous pool decking allows more space for entering, exiting, seating, etc.

It’s also a good idea to consult local building codes, which may dictate lap pool sizes or specifications. Planning for future growth is also wise, allowing room to expand use if needed.

Lap Pool Shape Options

Beyond rectangular lap pools, some alternate pool shapes can also facilitate swimming laps if designed properly. These include:

• Oval pools – Lap lanes run in the longer direction.
• Freeform pools – One section is rectangular for lap swimming.
• Endless (infinity edge) pools – Lap area separated from decorative waterfall edge.

The key is ensuring at least a 25-yard straight length for effective lap swimming. This allows unobstructed strokes and tumble turns. Consult pool designers if wanting creative shapes with lap swimming capabilities.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Lap Pools

Lap pools can be built indoors or outdoors. The optimal size may differ slightly based on location:

• Indoor lap pools – Constrained by building size, so often smaller. Standard 25-yard x 45-60 foot pools common.
• Outdoor lap pools – Less space limitations, allowing larger sizes. Olympic 50-meter pools more achievable.

Outdoor pools also need to consider land grading, watershed drainage, pool equipment housing, and local climate conditions (for year-round use). Portable pool covers are common to retain heat in cooler weather.

Backyard Lap Pools

For residential lap pools installed in home backyards, recommended sizes include:

• 20-25 yards long x 10-15 feet wide
• 60-75 feet long x 30-45 feet wide

The smaller range allows for 1-2 lap lanes for family swimming and exercise. Larger backyard lap pools allow more lap lanes and greater usage capacity.

Lap Lane Width Recommendations

It’s also important to consider lap lane width (swim lane) recommendations within a lap pool’s overall dimensions:

• Therapy/solo lanes – 4 feet minimum width
• Lap swim lanes – 5-6 feet width
• Competition lanes – At least 7-8 feet wide

Wider lap lanes are recommended for competitive swimming environments to ensure adequate personal space. Narrower lanes can suffice for more casual swimming but may feel cramped.

Building a Custom Lap Pool

Those seeking a custom designed residential or commercial lap pool are best advised to partner with an experienced pool builder. Reputable pool contractors can:

• Recommend appropriate lap pool dimensions based on planned usage
• Design an optimized layout within available space
• Select appropriate construction materials and finishes
• Incorporate special features like infinity edges or fountains
• Handle all needed permits, excavation, utilities, and inspections

Be sure to verify that any potential pool company specializes in lap pools and visit examples of their previous work. Larger pool construction projects typically require engineered plans.

Typical Lap Pool Construction Costs

Lap pool construction costs vary based on the size and features. Here are some typical price ranges:

• Small backyard lap pool (25′ x 15′) – $30,000 – $50,000+
• Medium commercial pool (25yd x 45′)- $150,000 – $250,000+
• Competition/Olympic pool (50m x 25m) – $500,000 – $2 million+

Complexities like excavation challenges, special finishes or tiles, waterslides, fountains, or infinity edges add even more to the overall pool installation costs. Ongoing maintenance expenses should also be planned for.

Maintenance for Lap Pools

Lap pools require regular maintenance for optimal safety and performance. Recommended maintenance activities include:

• Testing and chemically balancing water 1-3x per week
• Brushing pool walls and floors weekly
• Cleaning pumps, skimmers, and filters monthly
• Shocking water with chlorine as needed
• Replacing pool parts as they wear out

Hiring a professional pool service can cost $100 – $300 monthly. DIY maintenance saves on service fees but demands more time and knowledge. Some communities also impose requirements for fencing, equipment, or other safety standards.

The Bottom Line

When planning a lap pool, the ideal size depends on the intended use, number of swimmers, and space available. Most residential lap pools are around 25 yards long by 45 feet wide. Olympic-size pools span 50 meters x 25 meters. Allowing 15-25+ feet width per lap lane provides a comfortable swimming environment.

Consulting pool construction experts is advised to design a custom lap pool tailored to your specific needs and site constraints. With proper planning, lap pools can provide an enjoyable place for swimming exercise, therapy, fitness, or competition.