Dark interiors, loud music - no need for headphones - timed with a lighting show is all part of what Mr Radley to make his gym sessions an experience.

He admitted this might be a little bit different to what many might expect in a gym environment but his design was for people to be comfortable, confident and immersed in the moment.

Sweaty AF opened not long before the pandemic lockdowns took hold but one year on, Mr Radley said the extra time proved invaluable.

"Lockdown really was a blessing in disguise because it gave me time to change my design," Mr Radley said. "We're a brand new business and didn't get any government support so we could look at getting it right."

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The gym is tucked down the side of the 159-year-old Ballarat Railway Station, surrounded by a construction zone with precinct upgrades well underway and Lydiard Street gates still in a state of flux.

For now, Mr Radley said a few disorientated travellers tended to wander in looking for the platform but he felt this was the right place to be.

The new Quest Ballarat Station hotel, with more than 77 studio rooms and apartments, opened in December and The Provincial Hotel is across the road.

The heritage Goods Shed is set to be transformed into a food, retail and function hub. Transport-wise, there is the new multi-storey car park, a refreshed bus interchange and a chance for commuters to get in a workout before or after their train.

Inside, the gym has no set classes just morning or afternoon sessions designed to get people in, out and sweaty within 35 minutes. Mr Radley said the concept was built on low-impact cardio equipment with weights to shred fat and build muscle in a short, fun amount of time.

If feeling confident there was also a chance to capture this in the selfie room before jumping on the train.

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