Australia is internationally renowned for its beaches and (dying) coral reefs, but, for those not fortunate enough to live by the sea, the public pool is an institution.
In my early 20s, I developed what would become a chronic back condition that kicked off with a bulging disc and a bout of back surgery. For the frustrating months I spent recovering, warm water hydrotherapy, saunas and spas were a major source of pain relief. I would visit my local pool at least three times per week, starting with gentle walking in the hydro pool amid aerobics enthusiasts, then graduating, eventually, to the lap pool. Since then, swimming laps has been a coveted routine in my life.
