Your lap pool is probably too warm

Yes, there’s a big difference: training pools should sit around 78–82°F, while recreational swimming is better at 82–86°F.

If you’re doing actual swim training—laps, intervals, drills—your body generates a ton of heat. A cooler pool (think 78-80°F) helps you dump that heat and keep going harder for longer. Anything over 83°F and you’ll feel sluggish, overheat faster, and your performance will tank. I’ve seen public lap pools set at 84°F and it’s miserable after 20 minutes.

Recreational swimming is the opposite. You’re not trying to set a PR. You’re floating, playing, maybe doing some gentle strokes. Warmer water (84-86°F) is more comfortable for just hanging out, especially for kids, older folks, or anyone who doesn’t want to feel cold the second they stop moving.

The problem is that many multipurpose pools try to split the difference and land around 82-83°F, which leaves neither group happy. If you’re training, ask for the cooler end. If you’re just splashing around, find a warmer pool.

Pick the temperature for what you’re actually doing that day—not what sounds nice on paper.