Project Better Collingwood

Project Better Collingwood is a 24-hour gym for Melbourne locals, with the website listing its Collingwood site at 436 Smith Street. Access is managed through the KISI app, and memberships are available with weekly, monthly, quarterly and bi-annual payment options. The gym says there are no lock-in contracts, joining fees or cancellation fees, and members can use all Project Better locations. A first-day trial is also available for people who want to look around and train before committing.

The facilities extend beyond standard gym access. Members can use saunas and ice baths, with a body scanner also listed among the amenities. Project Better describes the space as dog-friendly and deliberately free of mirrors, creating an environment that focuses less on appearance and more on feeling comfortable while exercising. The owners’ description highlights hardwood floors, natural light, plants and a relaxed atmosphere, while member feedback refers to the backyard sauna and ice baths, as well as the welcoming feel of the gym.

For those wanting more structure, the venue offers personal training, nutrition consulting and programming. Personal trainers can be matched to individual needs and goals, with the option to book as much or as little one-on-one support as suits you. The team also lists a starter package of three 30-minute personal-training sessions for $100. The approach appears designed for a wide range of experience levels: co-owner Jess describes working with children, grandparents and people across different abilities, while co-owner Yago brings a sports-science background and a coaching style that combines technical knowledge with a relaxed, human approach.

The broader idea behind Project Better is to create a warm, supportive place where people can become stronger and healthier without feeling judged. Its values centre on integrity, ongoing learning, practical leadership and putting people first. That makes it a potentially good fit for solo gym-goers who prefer a friendly setting, members bringing their dogs, and anyone looking for coaching or recovery facilities alongside regular training. The site also presents the gym as a community space where exercise can sit comfortably alongside everyday life, rather than as a narrowly competitive environment.