What is the difference between a hydrotherapy pool and a swimming pool?

Core Distinctions Between Hydrotherapy Pools and Standard Swimming Pools

Think of it this way: one’s a spa day, the other’s a workout.

A hydrotherapy pool is warm, soothing, and made for healing. A swimming pool is cooler and built for laps and laughs. 

The short answer? One is for therapy, the other is for fun and fitness. Curious about jets, pool heaters, or which one fits your lifestyle best? Keep reading!

Purpose and Therapeutic Focus

Designed for Rehabilitation and Wellness

Hydrotherapy pools are often found in rehab clinics, hospitals, and some private homes. They’re used to treat injuries, reduce chronic pain, and improve mobility in people with conditions like arthritis or fibromyalgia.

What makes them different? The environment is calm, the water is warmer, and the design helps support your body during movement.

If you've ever had a sore back and wished you could stretch without pain, that's what hydrotherapy pools are made for. Some even come with underwater treadmills or resistance jets to help you rebuild strength safely.

Built for Recreation and Exercise

Swimming pools are where the action happens. Whether you're swimming laps, playing games with the kids, or training for a triathlon, these pools are made for movement.

They’re often larger, cooler, and have features like lane markers, diving boards, or pool noodles galore. You’re not floating to relax here - you’re here to move, sweat (kind of), and maybe even race someone.

So if your idea of a good time involves freestyle sprints or a pool float and a cold drink, this is your lane.

Temperature and Water Characteristics

Optimal Temperature for Hydrotherapy Pools (32-36°C)

Hydrotherapy pools are heated to stay between 32°C and 36°C (89°F to 97°F). That’s pretty warm - and on purpose.

This warmth helps muscles relax, increases blood flow, and makes movement easier. It’s one reason hydrotherapy feels so gentle even if you’re working hard inside the pool.

If you plan to build your own, make sure you have a quality pool heater that can maintain this temperature range consistently. 

Typical Swimming Pool Temperatures (21-27°C)

Swimming pools stay cooler, around 21°C to 27°C (70°F to 81°F). That lower temperature keeps you from overheating when you're doing laps or playing water volleyball.

It also gives you that brisk, refreshing feeling when you jump in - especially on a hot day. Most home pools fall somewhere in the middle, depending on whether you have a pool heater or not.

And yes, pool heaters can help extend your swim season well beyond summer.

Design, Features, and Accessibility

Specialized Aids and Equipment

Hydrotherapy pools often include built-in seats, handrails, ramps, or even pool lifts. They're made to be safe and easy to use for people recovering from injuries or dealing with limited mobility.

Some also have massage jets, resistance bands, or bubble zones to help with circulation and muscle tension. These aren’t luxury extras - they’re part of the therapy.

It’s not about bells and whistles. It’s about making movement easier for people who need a bit more support.

Depth and Size Variations

Hydrotherapy pools are usually smaller and shallower. This makes it easier for therapists to assist and for users to feel stable and safe.

Swimming pools, on the other hand, come in all shapes and sizes. Backyard pools, Olympic pools, and even infinity pools are designed for recreation and performance.

The deeper the pool, the more options for diving or competitive training. But if you're focused on recovery or low-impact exercise, smaller and shallower is usually better.

Usage and Maintenance Standards

Hydrotherapy pools require stricter maintenance. Since they’re used for health reasons, the water must be tested more often, and the filtration system needs to work overtime to keep things clean.

The higher water temperatures can also cause more bacteria growth if the system isn’t well-maintained. That means stronger sanitation practices and more frequent filter checks.

Swimming pools still need regular care - cleaning, pH balancing, and so on - but they’re generally easier to maintain and don’t require as much precision.

Final Thought:
Hydrotherapy pools help your body heal. Swimming pools help your body move. The right pool depends on what you need most - recovery or recreation. Either way, knowing the difference (and keeping the water warm if needed) makes a big splash in your decision.