Best size to get for laps

[peterpissierssens]

hello
this is my first post on this forum. We want to get an Intex Ultra Frame rectangular pool but we're unsure about whether to get the 12 x 24 or 16 x 32. We want to use the pool to keep in some sort of condition so in that case the longer the pool the better. BUT on the other hand the 16x32 takes much more water (and thus also more expensive heating for which we will use a heatpump) and also needs a much larger space to install. Does anyone have the 12 x 24 and is it possible to use it for swimming? Usually the size advice for swimming is min. 26 ft. Other question: does anyone advise for or against putting this pool in-ground?
thanks in advance
peter

 

[jmcdtucson]

Re: Best size to get for laps

I can swim some laps in my 12x24, but it's pretty short if you're really trying to get in condition. My advice would be get the bigger pool. People seem to rarely regret a larger pool.
I don't know anything about putting it in ground. But seems like some have put it in at least partially.

 

[peterpissierssens]

Re:*Best size to get for laps

ok thanks for your advice!

 

[YippeeSkippy]

Aren't there some exercise devices that help you "swim in place" and hence the smaller pool might work just fine. I'm not sure if they're able to be attached to an above ground pool or not.....?

I found a couple under "stationary swimming" in the amazon search engine

Maddie

 

[RoxxW]

I use pool weights when cleaning the pool. You would be amazed at the soreness generated wearing wrist and ankle weights will in the pool vacuuming and skimming!

 

[mariane]

We have a 16x28 AGP and unable to swim laps since it takes about 5 strokes to get from one end to the other. So after looking at what others have done, I rigged up a bungee cord system with a waist belt, attached to the fence next to our pool with long straps. Works great. No laps, no turns. Just swimming in place for what ever time I want, changing strokes, or changing from back to front swimming.

 

[TTinOK]

My husband won the "bigger is better" fight & we have the 16x32. It's awesome!! We had to do several upgrades (pump & vac) to keep it clean, but totally worth it!! I love doing laps & it wears our 6 year old out, who tries to keep up with me. We are in the South so no heater needed until next month. Currently looking at some black pipe options since it would take 3-4 traditional heater units. Do not recommend putting it in the ground because of the leg design and will add that I wish we used wood strips for the legs instead of concrete blocks...several have cracked. We do not fully drain for winter, so it's pretty cheap to top off at the beginning of the season.

 

[KarenNJ]

I have a 18x33 and can swim much better than I anticipated. It tires me out!