10 Interesting Facts about The History Of Swimming Pools!
Swimming pools have become an essential part of modern life. People go to the pool for exercise, to practice swimming for sports, and to be healthy. Nowadays, most homes have a swimming pool with people who want to relax at home in the pool. Have you ever wondered how old swimming pools are? When did the first swimming pool originate? The answers to this and many other questions are given below. These are fun facts about swimming pools and their history.
1. The first pool
This interesting fact is about the first swimming pool ever. Many people believe that swimming pools are a modern invention. This is a myth. Swimming pools are as ancient as mankind itself. One of the earliest civilizations in the world was the Indus Valley Civilization which existed in ancient India. This civilization had swimming pools in form of baths that were used by the public. The Great Bath is considered one of the oldest swimming pools and probably the first. Located in Mohenjo-Daro in Pakistan, this pool is believed to be in existence since the 3rd millennium BC. The pool is 39 x 23 feet has brick lining. The first heated swimming pool is believed to have originated in Rome sometime between 38 BC and 8 BC.
2. The first modern pool
Old pools were more in the nature of baths for the residents of ancient cities. Swimming pools, as they exist today originated at the beginning of the 20th century. It is believed that the first swimming pool of the modern era was built in 1915. The pool, which resembled the pools of today was built in Austin in Texas. Pools started off as being built in public areas meant for everyone to use. It was after the second world war that people started building perth swimming pool in their homes. Now, pools have become a common feature in homes.
3. Domestic pools
Domestic pools or pools in the home have become a common feature. Thanks to the various types of swimming pools being available, most people can get a pool. Even those who have limited space in their homes or have a limited budget can own a pool. Today swimming pools are available in fiberglass and are pre-built. They just have to be shifted to the home and installed. This has made home pools or domestic pools highly popular. An interesting fact is that Australia is the country that has the most domestic pools in the world (calculated on a per capita basis).
4. Swimming for good health
Thanks to the pandemic, the importance of being healthy and fit has never been more important. In fact, in the past few decades, people are putting in more effort to be fit. People are getting pools in their homes so they can be fit. There is no doubt that swimming is one of the best exercises to be fit and healthy. Swimming exercises all the muscles. It is a good cardio exercise that strengthens the heart and pumps up the lungs. Those who want to lose weight will find swimming a great activity.
5. The largest pool
Did you know where the largest pool in the world is? It is in Chile! San Alfonso del Mar resort is the location of the biggest pool in the world. The pool is in Algarobba in the South American country of Chile. It holds a record in the Guinness Book for being the largest pool. The pool spans an area of 19.77 acres. The pool is 1,013 meters long. The construction of this pool concluded in 2006. The deepest point of this pool is 11 feet. The capacity of the pool is a whopping 66 million gallons of water.
6. Swimming in the Olympics
Swimming events are a part of the Olympic Games. Swimmers can represent their countries to win medals. Did you know when swimming was first introduced in the Olympics? 1896 was the year when swimming was introduced as an event in the Olympics. An interesting fact about the Olympics is that the highest number of medals in the Olympics is held by Michael Phelps. He has 23 gold medals which is a world record for all types of games. He established a record in the 2008 games by winning eight gold medals, the highest won by a swimmer.
7. The first swimming club
Swimming clubs are common and offer a venue for those who like to swim and learn to swim. The first swimming club was started in Kent in Maidstone. Known as the Maidstone Swimming Club, it was started to help people learn to swim since many people were dying in the Medway River. The Oxford Swimming Club was formed in 1909. Many swimming clubs opened up and most of them were converted into swimming pools subsequently.
8. Chlorine can kill most germs within a minute
It is a well-known fact that chlorine is used in pools as a disinfectant. This ensures bacteria and microbes are killed. This makes the pool safe for use by humans. Dangerous bacteria like E. coli can be killed within a minute’s time. Most other microbes can be killed within 15 to 20 minutes. It is important therefore to chlorinate the pool and ensure it is disinfected.
9. Swimming, Australia, and the Olympics
Australia is one country where people really love swimming. This is why Australians do best at the Olympics in swimming. If you look at the Olympic performance by Australian swimmers, you will find many records. Ian Thorpe has 9 medals in the Olympics while Leisel Jones has also 9 medals.
10. Pools on liners
Swimming pools on ocean liners are an attractive feature of cruise travel. Did you know which was the first liner to have a swimming pool on board? It was the Titanic!
If all these facts have inspired you to take up swimming, consider getting a pool for your house. It would be one of the best investments you have made.