TYPES OF SWIMMING POOLS

There are different types of pools distinguished on different bases, such as structure, layout, location, etc.

Based on location in context with the ground, the pools can be broadly classified in two main categories:

1. In-ground pools: These are the pools made into the ground by digging in the ground and then fitting in a pool structure.

2. Above ground pools: These are the pools that are made above the ground. They are constructed as a standing structure.

Based on location premises, again there are two types of pools.

1. Indoor pools: As evident from the name, indoor pools are the pools which are located inside a building or a structure covered by a rooftop and insulated by at least three walls.

2. Outdoor pools: Again as the name suggests, outdoor pools are the pools designed for leisure activities outdoors.

The pools can be permanent in-built structures or temporary collapsible structures like that of children's pool which can be deflated and packed when not in use.

Depending upon the ownership and the purpose also there are different types of pools.

1. Private Pools: These are privately owned pools installed in backyards, rooftops, gardens in homes. They are small in size, but big enough to increase the elegance of the home, increase its sight and for personal delight. These are generally family pools. The pool-side party is a big attraction with such pools. They are meant for personal recreational purposes of the family. Soothing water features, slides, boulders, caves, fountains and what not can be added to their glory. And who would like to miss a party by the side of such a pool, be it a small child or an old couple?

2. Public Pools: Public pools are generally outdoor, but many may be indoor installed in leisure and sports centres. They generally have more than one pool which can be briefed as:

·       Indoor heated pool

·       Outdoor heated or unheated pool

·       Children's pool

·       Toddler's paddling  pool

·       Spa pool or hot tubs

3. Children's Pools: These are temporary shallow pools meant for children's fun and activities during summers. They can be owned privately at homes and can also be found as installed in places meant for public recreation. They are temporary pools, can be inflated and used. After use, deflated and packed back.

Then, we have some other types of pools also. Here, they are:

·       Architectural pools: The pools designed by an architect generally at the same time when a house or any resort is designed and built to give a cohesive look are known as architectural pools. They are well designed in geometry and space too to give a sophisticated look.

·       Infinity edge pools: An expensive pool, but what is more costly than a gleaming illusion of water falling from the edge of the pool. These are also named as vanishing edge pools or negative edge pools. The gleam gets sharpened when such a pool is located at a height from a water body and one can assume the water to flowing into the ocean, bay, lake, river, pond or any other water body.

·       Lap pools: These are long and narrow pools built for the purpose of health and fitness.

·       Natural pools: These are the self-cleaning pools with the beauty and fragrances, nature has in its bounty to offer. These are designed mainly as landscape attraction and with self-cleaning environmental concerns.

·       Zero-entry swimming pools: These are the pools designed in a manner to assist young children, older people and other physically challenged people while entering the pool. They do not have an edge entry but a sloping entry which generally slopes down deeper just like a beach entering the sea bed.

Swimming is not just a recreational activity and an exercise or done only for pleasure. It has also emerged as a competent field. So, here what we have are the

Competition Pools: As suggested by the name itself, Competition pools are the pools designed and built for the purpose of swimming and other water competitions. They are found as a part of Championships meet every inch of the standards for healthy pools.

Olympic-sized swimming pools: These are large-sized swimming pools for world Championships like that of Olympics. They are designed with specifications and in accordance with the standards laid by International Swimming Federation.