Average Pool Size For Swimming – Perfect Pool Measurements

The average size of a swimming pool can vary. In the United States, the average pool size is 14 feet by 28 feet, with 4 feet of width. However, an official Olympic-sized pool measures 50 meters by 25 meters (82 or 164 feet).

Average Pool Size For Swimming

The depth of the pool measures between 1.35 meters and 2 meters. The pool contains 10 lanes, and each lane measures 2.5 meters in width.

Average Pool Size
Average Pool Size

A swimming pool is also called a swimming bath or paddling pool. Pools are designed to hold water so that people can compete in swimming competitions or engage in other leisure activities. There are different types of pools (inground and aboveground), which are small, medium, and large. The Olympic-size swimming pool is the largest pool. But you should keep in mind that the swimming pool dimensions are not the same as the pool table layout.

You should consider the dimensions if you are a swimmer or plan to become one.

So, let’s discuss it in detail.

Standard Swimming Pool Dimensions

A swimming pool must meet the requirements set by the International Swimming Federation (FINA). These standards ensure that swimming competitions are fair and consistent. The standard swimming pool is rectangular in shape, and its length, width, and depth are governed by FINA.

How Big is an Olympic Swimming Pool?

  • Length: 50m
  • Width: 25m
  • Number of lanes: 10
  • Lane width: 2.5
  • Depth: 2m
Average Pool Size
Average Pool Size

The width of the Olympic-sized pool is divided into ten lanes of 2.5m. The standard swimming pool size is 25m wide and 50m long. An Olympic swimming pool’s depth ranges from 1.35m to 2m. 

These Olympic-size pools are often built indoors and heated to enable their use all year round and to make it easier to comply with rules for temperature, lighting, and automated officiating equipment.

The Olympic pool must be kept at a temperature of 25–28°C with a minimum depth of 2m. The lighting level must be greater than 1500 lux.

Swimming Pool Space Requirements

When installing a swimming pool, it’s worthwhile to consider space requirements. This is to ensure that the pool fits comfortably in the available area and meets local zoning or building codes.

Here are some factors to consider before installing a swimming pool.

  • In-ground swimming pools should have a perimeter space of at least 8 to 10 feet.
  • Above-ground swimming pools with decks provide sufficient space for people to move around the pool and access the ladder or steps.
  • The depth of the pool and the surrounding deck space should be designed to meet local building codes and safety regulations.

Minimum Clearance Around a Swimming Pool

The minimum clearance space, also called deck space, around the Olympic swimming pool and other competitive pools can vary. 

FINA, the official governing body of swimming, requires a minimum deck space of 2 meters (6 feet). You must ensure that there is enough space around the pool for outdoor furniture. It should also provide enough space for athletes or officials to walk around the pool.

In the United States, according to the NSPF, the deck space should measure four feet around the pool to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This allows for wheelchair access and other accommodations.

Average Pool Size
Average Pool Size

Safety Requirements

Many local building codes require a safety barrier around the pool area. The barrier should be at least 4 feet high and without gaps that a child could crawl through.

How Much Water is in a Pool in Liters?

You can simply calculate the required water space in your pool by using these formulae. The table below will help you calculate your water space requirements in your pool.

Pool ShapeCalculation FormulaExamples
Rectangular shapeLength x Width x Depth x 7.5There are 30,000 gallons in 40 x 20 x 5 x 7.5 feet.
Oval shape Length x Width x Depth x 5.916 ft x 32 ft x 4 ft x 5.9 = 15,283 gallons
Round shapeDiameter x Diameter x Depth x 5.924 ft x 24 ft x 5 ft x 5.9 = 13,594 gallons

 FAQs


In the average swimming pool, there are 18.000 to 20,000 gallons of water.

In general, swimming pools measure 10 feet by 20 feet to 20 feet by 40 feet. The pool must measure a width of 4 to 8 feet.

An Olympic-sized pool measures 82 feet by 164 feet.

Typically, 10 lanes are used in Olympic pools.

Conclusion

This article provides an overview of the average size and dimensions of swimming pools. We also discuss the standard size set by the International Swimming Federation for competitive swimming pools or Olympic pools. 

All these dimensions and measurements of swimming pools provided in the article can be helpful for swimmers and pool owners alike when planning to install a pool or participate in swimming competitions.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *