A lap pool is a swimming pool which is designed specifically for the purpose of swimming laps. It may also be called an exercise or personal pool, because lap pools are usually intended for the use of one person who wants to use swimming to stay fit. Many pool companies offer lap pool installation to their clients who want the convenience of a small pool at home, and lap pools can sometimes be found in innovative places. Some architects carefully integrate lap pools into their home designs to create a seamless and stylish water accent in addition to a place to work out.

Lap pools are typically long and narrow, allowing people to swim back and forth for as many laps of exercise as they desire. Sometimes, a lap pool will have a slightly unusual shape, but the classic and basic design is a simple rectangle. The water is usually of a uniform depth as well, which can make lap pools dangerous around children and pets. Lap pools may be heated or unheated, depending on the region, and they are usually very easy to maintain.

In cases where people have very limited space for the installation of a lap pool, an endless pool may be installed instead. Endless pools have a steady resistance current which swimmers can work against for exercise. Essentially, they work like treadmills, as the swimmer stays in the same place in the water, but gets a great deal of exercise thanks to the current.

An indoor lap pool may be installed as part of a fitness room or greenhouse, or it may be intriguingly positioned in a public area of a home. Some designer homes, for example, integrate a lap pool in the living room so that the home owner can enjoy beautiful views while he or she swims, while taking advantage of the water in the pool as a decorative home feature. A lap pool may also be placed outdoors; in temperate climates, a lap pool can be great in a small backyard.

Swimming is a great fitness technique since it can be used by people at all levels of physical ability. It is gentle on the joints of the body, which is why many older people or people with disabilities choose to swim, since it gently builds muscle without creating strain. Swimming can also help to reduce overall stress, like many other forms of exercise, which is why it is often popular with urban dwellers.