Swim Tether for Above-Ground Pools
Yes, it works. Above-ground pool owners use Swim Tether to swim laps, do water aerobics, and get a real workout — without upgrading their pool.
You Don't Need a Lap Pool to Swim Laps
Above-ground pools are one of the most common setups we see. Whether you have an Intex, Bestway, Coleman, or a permanent above-ground pool with a surrounding deck, there's a Swim Tether solution that works for you.
The key difference from inground pools is the mounting surface. If you have a deck around your above-ground pool, you can mount a base directly to it and use a full pole system. If you don't have a deck, the Travel Belt anchors to the pool frame, a fence post, or any sturdy fixed object near the water — no drilling required.
Why Above-Ground Pool Owners Love Swim Tether
Matches Your Budget
You chose an above-ground pool for value. Swim Tether fits the same mindset — a real swim workout starting at $49, not a $10K swim jet.
No Pool Modifications
Nothing attaches to your pool walls or liner. The Travel Belt anchors externally, and deck-mount systems bolt to the deck surface, not the pool itself.
Real Exercise in a Small Pool
Even a 10×20 Intex pool becomes a swim training lane. Stop doing laps back and forth — swim continuously in place with smooth resistance.
Works Temporary or Permanent
Take your pool down for winter? The Travel Belt packs away in seconds. Have a permanent above-ground with a deck? Mount a full pole system.
Great for Families
Kids and adults can all use it. Adjust the belt, adjust your speed — the resistance adapts to whoever is swimming.
Take It Anywhere
The Travel Belt works in any pool. If you upgrade your pool setup later, just bring the belt along. It's yours for life.
Setup Options
Two approaches depending on whether you have a surrounding deck.
Option A: You Have a Deck
If your above-ground pool has a surrounding wood or composite deck, mount a Threaded Base directly to the deck surface. Then use any pole system (ST1, ST2, or ST3) with a cord length matched to your pool size. This gives you the full pole-mount experience.
Option B: No Deck — Use the Travel Belt
Wrap the 30-inch anchor strap around a pool frame rail, fence post, ladder, or any fixed object near the water's edge. Connect the 8-foot stretch cord to the belt, clip in, and swim. No drilling, no tools, no permanent installation.
Option C: DIY Mounting
Several customers have mounted a short PVC pipe to a fence post or driven a ground anchor near their pool. The pole's base fits standard 1.5-inch mounting hardware. If you're handy, there are creative solutions — reach out and we'll help you figure it out.
Recommended Setup
Your best option depends on your pool structure and deck situation.
STT Travel Belt — $49
The simplest, most versatile option. No drilling, no permanent install. Anchors to your pool frame, a fence, or any sturdy post. Includes belt, 8 ft cord, and anchor strap.
ST2 + Threaded Base + 6–8 ft Cord
For above-ground pools with surrounding decks, the full pole system gives you a better swimming experience. The elevated cord angle keeps your body horizontal for proper form.
Pro Tips for Above-Ground Pool Owners
Anchor strap placement matters. Position the anchor strap at least 36 inches above the waterline for the best cord angle. The higher the anchor point, the more horizontal your body position in the water.
Swim from a corner, not the middle of a wall. Corners give you the most diagonal distance in your pool — useful when you want the longest possible swim lane.
Seasonal pool? The Travel Belt is your best friend. It packs into a bag, goes wherever you go, and works in next season's pool just as well as this one.
Intex or Bestway pool owners: Some customers use two cords in a V-shape from the pool's corner posts for extra stability. Reach out if you want setup advice for your specific model.
Pool depth of 48 inches or more works best for swimming. Shallower pools (36") are fine for water walking and aerobics with the ST1 or Travel Belt.
Ready to Swim in Place?
Build your kit or grab a Travel Belt — either way, you'll be swimming by this weekend.