A swimming pool is a temporary or permanent tank that holds water in which people may swim. It is generally constructed of concrete, fiberglass, or metal and has a deep end, shallow end, and a deck area around the edge. Some pools are equipped with slides, diving boards, or other equipment. Most pools have lifeguards to supervise swimmers and provide emergency medical care. The level of bacteria and viruses in the water must be low to prevent disease and infection, so chlorine and other disinfectants are used. Biological filters and water regeneration zones are also used in some systems.
Swimming is a popular recreational activity that provides exercise, relaxation, and socialization. Swimming is also a competitive sport and a major event in many international sports events, such as the Olympic Games.
There are different types of swimming pools, and the best choice will depend on your needs, available space, budget, and local climate. Small pools are available for backyard use, and more elaborate outdoor or indoor pools can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Some pools are designed for specific purposes, such as competition or training. These must meet rigorous standards set by the Federation Internationale de la Natation (FINA): the water must be at a temperature between 25 and 28 degrees Celsius and have a minimum depth of 1.35 m (4.4 ft). The pools are often indoors to enable them to be used all year round, and they are often heated to help maintain these temperatures.