These aren't "swimming" pools, they're splashing pools. Splashing in shallow water requires much less physical exertion. Actually swimming, keeping oneself afloat while playing is much more strenuous. Article after article bemoans the fattening of America and at the same time, we're removing opportunities to exercise, because they're not safe.
I've enjoyed recent family vacations we've taken to area waterparks, but the one thing missing is the swimming. With maximum 5 or 6 foot depths, and usually one a few few square feet of these, any sort of meaningful swimming is difficult. This is sad. Mr. FourPeas may yet talk me into a pool in our backyard -- one with a deep end.
most kids get plenty of swimming in 5 or 6 feet of water. Our swim club that has been around for 30 years only goes to 6 feet. My 6 year old daughters are on the swim team and can swim 25 yards without stopping.