When thinking about swimming pools, most people envision the elaborate design and landscaping associated with hotel and resort pools. While pools certainly can be used for recreational purposes a growing number of people are recognizing swimming for its exercise benefits. More and more pools are being built with fitness 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.

A lap pool is a small, rectangular shaped pool that was created for the sole idea of swimming laps. The primary purpose of this pool is for exercise instead of recreational swimming. Regular swimming pools are often circular or have unique shapes, whereas the lap pools are often long and narrow. Sometimes, these pools are only one lane long - perfect for a back and forth swim.

A neat feature to some lap pools is to have a flowing current. A one directional current can be added to both the above ground or inground lap pools. The purpose of this is to provide an endless swimming pool feature. This provides an excellent workout for the avid exerciser as they attempt to swim against the current.

Inground lap pools may be placed either indoors or outdoors. Indoor pools have the obvious advantage of being less sensitive to outdoor temperature fluctuations, but even an outdoor pool can be made to work year-round. Heated pools are popular among both business owners and homeowners, and make swimming far more comfortable regardless of the season.

The price of installing a lap pool varies, depending on the size of the pool and what features are included. As a general rule, the larger the pool, the more it will cost, and the price increases further with "add-ons" such as automated current and heating systems. Many, however, when considering their exercise and personal needs, find these installation costs to be a wise investment.