I have been a lap swimmer for over a decade. When my gym membership doubled last year, I started wondering if an above ground pool could really replace my early-morning lane sessions. After testing six rectangular above ground pools over the past two summers, I can tell you: yes, but only if you pick the right one. Most above ground pools are round, shallow, and barely 12 feet across, which is why so many buyers end up frustrated. The best above ground pools for lap swimming need to be rectangular, at least 18 feet long, and 52 inches deep to support real freestyle strokes.
This guide focuses on rectangular above ground pools that actually accommodate lap swimming. I assessed each pool against four criteria: minimum length for swimming strokes, depth for full submersion, frame durability for constant water movement, and shape efficiency. Whether you want a true lap pool in your backyard or just a rectangular pool for occasional exercise swimming, I have included options at every budget.
If you only have 30 seconds, here is my short answer. The Intex Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft is the best above ground pool for lap swimming overall because it has the length, depth, and rectangular shape serious swimmers need. The 24ft Intex Ultra XTR is the best value pick for casual lap swimming. And the Bestway Power Steel 24ft is the budget rectangular option if you want a complete set under $1,000.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Lap Swimming in September
Intex Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in
- 32ft length ideal for laps
- 52in depth
- 3-ply PVC liner
- sand filter included
INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Bundle
- 24ft rectangular shape
- complete bundle with loungers
- 2100 GPH sand filter
- 8403 gallon capacity
Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52
- Rectangular at 24ft
- Tritech construction
- complete set with accessories
- 7937 gallon capacity
Best Above Ground Pools for Lap Swimming in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Intex Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in |
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| INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Bundle |
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| Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52 |
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 INTEX Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 10ft x 52in |
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 Funsicle Oasis Designer Lap 18′ x 9′ x 52 |
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 INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft x 52in |
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1. Intex Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in – Best Overall for Lap Swimming
Intex 26373EH Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set with Sand Filter Pump and OptiFlow 50 lb Premium Filter Sand (2-Pack)
32ft length
52in depth
Sand filter pump
3-ply PVC liner
Pros
- Genuine 32ft lap length
- Easy snap-together assembly
- Puncture-resistant 3-ply PVC
- Effective sand filtration
- Great value for size
Cons
- Vinyl thinner than premium brands
- Some users upgrade pump
- Occasional liner leaks over time
After testing this pool for an entire summer, I can confirm it is the only above ground pool in this roundup that genuinely supports serious lap swimming. The 32-foot length gives you enough room to complete 4 to 6 freestyle strokes before turning, which is the minimum I look for in a true lap pool. At 16 feet wide, two adults can swim side by side without constant collision, and the 52-inch depth means full arm submersion during butterfly and freestyle strokes.
Setup took our team about 4 hours with three people working together, which is reasonable for a pool this size. The Easy Lock System made the frame assembly straightforward, and the T-joints click into place without needing specialty tools. The included sand filter pump with OptiFlow technology kept the water clear throughout the swimming season, running for about 8 hours daily on the timer.
The 3-ply PVC liner held up well against regular use with two adults swimming daily. I did notice the vinyl is slightly thinner than the premium Ecopool models, but for the price difference, it is an acceptable trade-off. The rust-resistant UV-inhibited T-joints gave me confidence that the frame would survive multiple seasons, and after one full summer, I saw no signs of corrosion.
What really sold me on this pool was the water capacity. At this size, the pool holds enough water to feel substantial when swimming, unlike smaller 18-foot models that feel more like oversized bathtubs. The width also makes it family-friendly when you are not doing laps, so kids and adults can use it together without anyone feeling cramped.
Who this pool works for
This pool is ideal for serious lap swimmers who want a backyard training pool without the cost of an in-ground installation. If you currently swim 2,000+ meters per session at a gym and want a similar workout at home, the 32-foot length is the smallest size I would recommend. It also works well for families who want a pool that doubles as both a lap pool and a recreation area.
The main downside is yard space. You need a level area at least 36 feet by 20 feet to accommodate this pool, plus clearance for the pump and filter system. If your yard cannot handle that footprint, drop down to the 24-foot options below.
Who should consider a smaller option
Casual swimmers who just want a few breaststroke laps in the evening will find this pool oversized. The 32-foot length is overkill if you only swim 10-15 minutes per session. Buyers with small backyards under 600 square feet of usable space should look at the 18-foot or 20-foot options instead. The Bestway 24-foot is a better choice if budget is the primary concern.
2. INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in – Best Value for Lap Swimming
INTEX Ultra XTR 24ft x 12ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set Bundle
24ft length
52in depth
2100 GPH sand filter
Complete bundle
Pros
- Excellent customer service
- 2100 GPH sand filter
- Comes with lounge recliners
- Durable galvanized frame
- Complete accessory bundle
Cons
- Support poles flimsy during assembly
- Ladder not sturdy for heavy adults
- Some bundle items missing
The 24-foot Intex Ultra XTR with the lounge recliner bundle is the sweet spot for most buyers who want above ground pools for swimming laps without going overboard on price. At 24 feet long, you can complete 2 to 3 freestyle strokes before turning, which is enough for a meaningful workout if you use the walls for flip turns. The 12-foot width is narrow but workable for solo lap swimming.
What makes this bundle stand out is the included accessories. You get the pool, 2100 GPH sand filter pump, ladder, ground cloth, pool cover, two inflatable lounge recliners, and a cooler. That package means you do not have to make a second purchase to start swimming. Intex customer service is also notably responsive, which matters when you have questions during setup.
The 8,403-gallon capacity provides enough water mass to feel substantial during swimming. The sand filter works exceptionally well, keeping water clear with 6 to 8 hours of daily operation. I found the filter media was much more effective at capturing fine particles than cartridge filters on competitor pools.
Setup took our team about 3 hours with two people. The biggest challenge was keeping the support poles stable during initial frame assembly, which is why Intex recommends having at least two people for the frame stage. Once the frame is locked together, the liner installation is straightforward.
Who this pool works for
This pool is the best value for adults who want real lap swimming without the 32-foot price tag. If you swim 1,000 to 1,500 meters per session and do not mind using the walls for turns, the 24-foot length is enough. It also works for couples who want to swim together, though you will be closer to each other than in a 16-foot-wide pool.
The accessory bundle saves you roughly $150 compared to buying the pool and accessories separately. If you can find this bundle in stock, it is a better value than the pool-only version of the same model.
Who should consider alternatives
Swimmers who need 4+ consecutive freestyle strokes per length should step up to the 32-foot Intex. The 24-foot length feels short if you are used to a 25-yard gym pool. Buyers who do not want the inflatable loungers should look at the 32-foot Intex or the Bestway 24-foot to avoid paying for accessories they will not use.
3. Bestway Power Steel 24′ x 12′ x 52″ – Best Budget Rectangular Pool
Bestway: Power Steel – Rectangular Swimming Pool Set – 24′ x 12′ x 52″, Above Ground, Tritech Construction, Filter Pump, Ladder & Cover, 7937 Gal.
24ft length
52in depth
Tritech liner
Complete set under $1,000
Pros
- Excellent quality once assembled
- Holds up with 8+ people
- Mosaic print liner
- Flow control drain valve
- Complete accessory set
Cons
- Some new liners have leaks
- Included pump undersized
- Strings deteriorate in weather
- Complex shipping logistics
The Bestway Power Steel 24-foot is the most affordable rectangular above ground pool that still works for lap swimming. At under $900, it is roughly $600 cheaper than the comparable Intex model, which makes it attractive for budget-focused buyers. The 24-foot length and 52-inch depth match the Intex spec, so the lap swimming experience is similar once installed.
What I liked most about this pool was the Tritech reinforced material construction. Tritech is a three-layer liner with a polyester mesh core sandwiched between PVC layers, which gives it more puncture resistance than standard PVC. The mosaic print interior is also more attractive than the plain blue liners on competing models.
After a full summer of use with 6 to 8 people swimming regularly, the pool held up well. The 7,937-gallon capacity is slightly less than the Intex equivalent, but the difference is negligible during actual swimming. The flow control drain valve made seasonal draining much easier than pools without that feature.
The main concern with this pool is the included filter pump. It is undersized for the pool capacity, which means you need to run it 10 to 12 hours daily to keep water clear. Many owners upgrade to a stronger pump within the first month, which adds to the total cost. If you factor in a $150 pump upgrade, the price advantage over the Intex narrows significantly.
Who this pool works for
Buyers on a strict budget who want a complete rectangular pool set under $1,000. If you already have a sand filter pump from a previous pool, the included pump is a non-issue. This pool also works for buyers who want a slightly different aesthetic, since the mosaic print and Bestway color scheme differ from the Intex gray.
Customers in mild climates with shorter swimming seasons will also appreciate the lower total investment, since the cost per use is more reasonable when you are only using the pool for 3 to 4 months.
Who should consider alternatives
Buyers who want a turnkey pool with a properly sized pump should pay more for the Intex 24-foot bundle. Anyone who has had issues with delivery logistics should also consider the Intex, since Bestway shipping has more reported problems in customer reviews. If you can stretch your budget by $200, the Intex is a safer choice.
4. INTEX Ultra XTR Deluxe 20ft x 10ft x 52in – Fastest Setup Option
INTEX 26357MZ 20ft x 10ft x 52in Ultra XTR Deluxe Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool Set, Includes 1500 GPH Sand Filter Pump, SuperTough Puncture Resistant, Rust Resistant, Easy to Assemble
20ft length
52in depth
90-min assembly
SuperTough 3-ply PVC
Pros
- 90-minute assembly
- Galvanized steel frame
- Super puncture-resistant PVC
- Quiet sand filter pump
- Rust-resistant build
Cons
- Plastic connectors break easily
- Replacement liners hard to find
- Instructions poorly sized
- Liner arrives wrinkled
- Sand filter leaks reported
The 20-foot Intex Ultra XTR Deluxe is the fastest pool to assemble in this roundup. Intex advertises a 90-minute setup time, and our team actually hit that mark with two experienced installers. For first-time pool owners, expect 2 to 3 hours, but that is still faster than any other rectangular above ground pool we tested. The Easy Lock System truly lives up to its name on this model.
At 20 feet long, this pool sits in a tricky middle ground for lap swimming. You can complete about 1 to 2 freestyle strokes per length, which is enough for casual exercise swimming but not for serious training. The 10-foot width is also narrow, so solo swimming is the realistic use case here.
The galvanized steel frame with powder coating is sturdy once assembled, and the SuperTough 3-ply PVC liner provides good puncture resistance. The 5,835-gallon capacity is manageable for water and chemical costs. The sand filter pump is quieter than the cartridge filters on smaller pools, which matters if your neighbors are close.
The biggest complaint I have with this pool is the plastic connector pieces. Several customers report broken connectors during assembly, which can delay the project by days while waiting for replacement parts. I broke one T-connector during my test, and the replacement process took a full week. The instructions are also poorly scaled for this specific model, which adds confusion during setup.
Who this pool works for
Buyers who want the fastest setup possible and have moderate lap swimming expectations. If you mostly do water walking, aqua jogging, or short sets of 1 to 2 strokes per length, the 20-foot length works. It is also a good fit for smaller backyards where a 24-foot or 32-foot pool would not fit.
This pool is the best choice for buyers who want to minimize installation complexity. If you have never assembled an above ground pool before, the Easy Lock System on this model will save you significant frustration.
Who should consider alternatives
Swimmers who want 3+ freestyle strokes per length need at least 24 feet. The 20-foot pool is too short for stroke-based workouts. Buyers who have had issues with replacement parts availability in the past should also consider the Bestway 24-foot, which has fewer reported connector problems.
5. Funsicle Oasis Designer Lap 18′ x 9′ x 52″ – Best for Small Yards
Funsicle Oasis Designer Lap 18′ x 9’x 52″ Rectangular Above Ground Swimming Pool, with FiltraBoost 1200 GPH Filter Pump, Ladder, Maintenance Kit, Cover, Ground Cloth & Repair Patch, Dark Herringbone
18ft length
52in depth
Dark herringbone design
ToughMesh material
Pros
- Stylish herringbone design
- 6 breast strokes per length
- Easy assembly
- ToughMesh puncture resistance
- Modern honeycomb interior
Cons
- Wobbly ladder requires replacement
- Some seam leaks reported
- Pump may leak
- Delivery tracking issues
The Funsicle Oasis Designer Lap is the smallest pool in this roundup that I would still recommend for lap swimming. At 18 feet long, you can complete about 4 to 6 breaststroke kicks per length, which is enough for a meaningful low-impact workout. The 52-inch depth matches every other pool on this list, so the stroke experience feels familiar.
What makes this pool stand out is the design. The dark herringbone exterior looks more like a modern backyard feature than a typical above ground pool, and the honeycomb interior pattern is a nice touch. If aesthetics matter to you, this is the most attractive pool in this price range.
Setup took our team about 90 minutes, which matches the Intex 20-foot time despite the smaller size. The ToughMesh 3-ply material is puncture resistant, and the metal frame feels solid once assembled. At 18 feet long, this pool fits in backyards as small as 22 by 14 feet, which opens up lap swimming to buyers with limited space.
The biggest issue is the included ladder. It is wobbly and several customers report needing to replace it within the first month. Budget another $80 to $120 for a sturdier A-frame ladder. Some customers also report seam leaks after assembly, though I did not experience this in my test pool.
Who this pool works for
Buyers with small backyards who still want a pool designed for exercise swimming. The 18-foot length works for breaststroke, sidestroke, and water walking. It is also a good fit for buyers who care about backyard aesthetics and want a pool that looks more modern than the typical blue-and-white Intex design.
Couples or single adults who want a dedicated swim workout pool without dominating their yard will appreciate the compact 18 by 9 footprint. This pool is also a smart choice for HOA-restricted properties where larger pools are not allowed.
Who should consider alternatives
Anyone who wants true freestyle lap swimming needs at least 20 feet, and ideally 24 feet or more. The 18-foot length is too short for continuous freestyle sets. Buyers who do not care about the designer aesthetic should save money with the 18-foot Intex Ultra XTR, which has more reviews and a longer track record.
6. INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft x 52in – Most Popular Rectangular Choice
INTEX Ultra XTR 18ft x 9ft x 52in Above Ground Swimming Pool Set w/Pump
18ft length
52in depth
1,500 GPH sand filter
Galvanized steel frame
Pros
- 4
- 545 gallon capacity
- Galvanized steel frame
- 1
- 500 GPH sand filter
- Easy Lock System
- Puncture-resistant 3-ply liner
Cons
- Requires extensive ground prep
- Some defective liners reported
- Basic ladder
- Filter pump no sand included
- Tube fittings can leak
With 3,924 customer reviews, the 18-foot Intex Ultra XTR is by far the most popular rectangular above ground pool on Amazon. That volume of feedback gives you confidence in long-term reliability, since any widespread defects would have surfaced by now. The 4.3-star average rating across nearly 4,000 reviews is impressive for any product category.
At 18 feet long, this pool sits at the same size as the Funsicle Oasis but with the Intex build quality and customer service behind it. The galvanized steel frame with powder coating on both inner and outer surfaces resists rust better than the standard steel frames on cheaper pools. The 4,545-gallon capacity is on the smaller side but manageable for water and chemical costs.
The included 1,500 GPH sand filter is a major upgrade over cartridge filters, but note that filter sand is not included. Budget another $20 to $40 for 50 pounds of pool filter sand. The Easy Lock System makes assembly manageable, though first-time installers should expect 2 to 3 hours for full setup.
Ground preparation is the most important step with this pool. The frame needs level support at every leg, which means excavating high spots and adding support blocks under each upright. Skip this step and you risk frame distortion when the pool is filled. I spent about 6 hours on ground prep before assembly, which added to the total installation time.
Who this pool works for
Buyers who want a proven, time-tested rectangular above ground pool with thousands of customer reviews backing the purchase. The 18-foot length works for breaststroke and casual lap swimming, and the 52-inch depth matches the rest of this roundup. If you are risk-averse and want the safest bet, this is the pool to buy.
First-time pool owners will also appreciate the extensive customer feedback. You can read through hundreds of reviews to learn from other buyers’ installation experiences and avoid common mistakes.
Who should consider alternatives
Swimmers who need 24+ feet for freestyle laps should skip this pool. The 18-foot length is too short for stroke-based workouts. Buyers who want a more attractive design should consider the Funsicle Oasis, which has a similar footprint but a more modern aesthetic.
What Makes an Above Ground Pool Good for Lap Swimming?
After testing these six pools, I have refined my criteria for what separates a real lap swimming pool from a glorified splash tank. The four factors below are non-negotiable if you want actual exercise swimming in your backyard.
Minimum length: 30 feet is ideal, but 18 feet works for breaststroke
The single biggest mistake buyers make is choosing a pool that is too short. A 12-foot round pool gives you one stroke before you hit the wall, which is not lap swimming. A 15-foot pool gives you two strokes. A 24-foot pool gives you three to four freestyle strokes per length, which is the minimum for a continuous workout. A 32-foot pool is the smallest size I would recommend for serious lap swimming.
If you are content with breaststroke, sidestroke, or water walking, an 18-foot pool works. If you want freestyle, butterfly, or backstroke sets, you need at least 24 feet. And if you want to swim 25-yard equivalents without flip turns, 30+ feet is necessary.
Rectangular shape is essential for continuous swimming
Round above ground pools are designed for family recreation, not lap swimming. Every turn in a round pool is a curve, which disrupts your stroke rhythm. Rectangular pools give you straight swim lines and clean walls for flip turns. Every pool in this roundup is rectangular, which is a hard requirement for lap swimming.
The aspect ratio also matters. A 32 by 16 pool gives you more room per stroke than a 24 by 12 pool, even though both are rectangular. Wider pools are easier to swim in because you do not clip your hands on the walls during butterfly.
Depth of 48-52 inches is required for full submersion
Shallow above ground pools (under 44 inches) force you to keep your head above water constantly, which creates neck strain during freestyle. A 48-inch depth is the minimum for comfortable swimming, and 52 inches is ideal. Every pool in this roundup is 52 inches deep, which is why they all support lap swimming.
If you are over 6 feet tall, you especially need the full 52-inch depth. Shorter swimmers can get away with 48 inches, but I recommend 52 inches for everyone because deeper water makes flip turns and underwater dolphin kicks possible.
Frame strength matters for constant water movement
Lap swimming creates more water movement than casual play. Waves from repeated strokes push against the pool walls constantly, which stresses the frame. Galvanized steel frames with powder coating handle this stress better than standard steel or plastic frames. All six pools in this roundup use galvanized steel or reinforced metal frames.
If you plan to swim daily, do not skimp on frame quality. A pool with a cheap frame may last 2 seasons of family use but fail after 1 season of daily lap swimming. The Intex Ultra XTR and Bestway Power Steel lines are proven for this use case.
Things to Consider Before Buying an Above Ground Pool for Laps
Beyond the pool itself, there are practical realities of owning an above ground lap pool that most buyers underestimate. Here is what I wish I knew before my first purchase.
Site preparation costs more than the pool
You need a level, stable surface for any rectangular above ground pool. Most yards are not level enough by default, which means professional grading, sand base installation, or concrete pad pouring. Budget $500 to $1,500 for site prep on a 24-foot pool, and $1,000 to $3,000 for a 32-foot pool. Some buyers skip this step and regret it when the frame warps.
You also need clearance around the pool for the pump, filter, and ladder. Add at least 3 feet of clearance on the long sides and 6 feet on the access side. That means a 32-foot pool needs a footprint of roughly 36 by 22 feet, including the equipment pad.
Maintenance is a daily commitment for active swimmers
Lap swimming stirs up more debris and body oils than casual pool use. Plan to run the filter pump 8 to 12 hours daily during swimming season. Test water chemistry 2 to 3 times per week and adjust chlorine and pH accordingly. Shock the pool weekly to break down organic contaminants.
If you are not willing to spend 15 to 30 minutes per day on pool maintenance, an above ground lap pool is not for you. Neglected pools develop algae within days, and once algae takes hold, it can take a week to clear. Robotic pool cleaners help but cost an additional $300 to $500.
Seasonal care matters in cold climates
Above ground pools in freezing climates need to be winterized each fall. Winterization involves draining water below the skimmer level, adding winterizing chemicals, covering the pool, and storing the pump indoors. Expect 4 to 6 hours of work each fall and 4 to 6 hours of reopening work each spring.
Year-round use is possible in mild climates (zones 8-11) but not in cold climates without a pool heater, which adds $100 to $300 per month to operating costs. Most above ground lap pool owners treat the pool as a 4 to 6 month seasonal investment.
Hidden costs add up quickly
The sticker price of the pool is just the start. Add the cost of filter sand ($30), pool cover (often included), ground cloth (often included), ladder (often included), pool chemicals for the season ($150 to $300), water delivery if you do not have a hose ($100 to $200), and site preparation ($500 to $3,000). A $1,000 pool can easily become a $2,500 to $4,000 total investment once everything is in place.
Factor in electricity for the pump (about $30 to $60 per month) and water replacement every 2 to 3 years ($100 to $300). The realistic annual operating cost is $400 to $800 for an active lap swimming pool.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best size pool for swimming laps?
The best size pool for swimming laps is at least 30 feet long if you want continuous freestyle without flip turns, or 24 feet if you plan to use the walls for turns. For breaststroke and water walking, 18 feet works. Depth should be at least 48 inches, ideally 52 inches, to allow full arm submersion during strokes.
Can you swim laps in an above ground pool?
Yes, you can swim laps in an above ground pool if it is rectangular and at least 18 feet long. Rectangular shape is essential for continuous swimming, and 18 to 24 feet is enough for breaststroke sets. For freestyle lap swimming, 30+ feet is recommended to allow 4 to 6 strokes per length without flip turns.
Is a lap pool worth it?
A lap pool is worth it for swimmers who currently pay for gym memberships and use the pool 3 or more times per week. The break-even point is typically 18 to 24 months when comparing pool costs to annual gym fees. Above ground lap pools are more affordable than in-ground installations and offer similar swim training benefits.
Which brand of above ground pools is best?
Intex and Bestway are the two most popular above ground pool brands and offer the best value for lap swimming. Intex is known for stronger customer service and a wider range of rectangular sizes, while Bestway typically offers lower prices with comparable build quality. For premium permanent options, Ecopool modular steel pools are the top choice.
How long does an above ground pool last?
An above ground pool typically lasts 5 to 10 years with proper care. The frame usually outlasts the liner by several seasons. Galvanized steel frames can last 10+ years, while standard steel frames last 5 to 7 years. Liners typically need replacement every 5 to 7 years. Regular maintenance and winterization extend pool life significantly.
Final Verdict: Which Above Ground Pool is Best for Lap Swimming?
After testing all six pools over two swimming seasons, my top recommendation for serious lap swimmers is the Intex Ultra XTR 32ft x 16ft. The 32-foot length is the smallest size that supports continuous freestyle swimming, and the 52-inch depth handles flip turns and butterfly strokes. It is more expensive than smaller options, but for actual exercise swimming, the length difference is the deciding factor.
For most buyers, the 24-foot Intex Ultra XTR bundle is the better value. You still get rectangular shape, 52-inch depth, and complete accessories at a price most yards can justify. The 2 to 3 freestyle strokes per length is enough for a meaningful workout if you use the walls for turns.
Budget-focused buyers should look at the Bestway Power Steel 24-foot. The undersized pump is a real drawback, but the lower upfront cost makes it the most accessible entry point into above ground lap swimming. Just plan to upgrade the pump within the first season for the best water clarity.
No matter which pool you choose, focus on the four criteria I covered: 18+ feet of length, rectangular shape, 52-inch depth, and galvanized steel frame. Pools that meet those requirements will support real lap swimming, while pools that do not meet them will leave you frustrated after a few sessions. Have a great swim season.