Sport and fitness

Yogi or not, it’s worth a visit to admire the Simhanada yoga studio’s minimalist space, which features attention to detail down to its own unique typeface, designed by New Zealand’s Klim Studio. Studio cofounder Eoin McCarthy wanted it to reflect the calmness of a Zen monastery and the rugged feel of his native Irish coast. His teachings follow the sequence-led principles of Ashtanga Vinyasa. Newcomers are more than welcome but should phone ahead. 

The Melbourne City Baths opened in 1860 as an option for an unpolluted dip after a severe typhoid outbreak was attributed to swimming in the Yarra. Now well into its second century, the centre has had its fitness facilities and pool modernised but the historic exteriors and ornate poolside balustrades remain. It’s a good retreat at which to swim a few laps of the 30-metre pool, play a game of squash, work out in the gym or join a fitness class. The setting is also striking enough that magazines, TV shows and production companies regularly use it as a backdrop. 

Another storied swim spot, Brighton Baths, has been keeping Melburnians fit for more than a century. Jutting out into Port Phillip Bay, this 160-metre-long swimming facility has provided bathers with a protected salty expanse since 1881. The enclosure handily measures 50 metres across should the lengthier stretch seem a little daunting. There’s a wooden boardwalk on which to sunbathe, while within the complex you’ll find indoor and outdoor gyms (both with waterfront views) and a steam room. Classes include Beach Fit and kayaking and you can also hire stand-up paddle boards.