Wetherby ice bath brand Brass Monkey brings cold water recovery to Leeds gyms

Cold water has become one of the biggest wellbeing trends of recent years. From wild swimmers to athletes, plenty of people swear by a chilly dip, and one of the businesses helping to make it easier to try sits right on Leeds' doorstep in Wetherby.

Brass Monkey is a Wetherby-based ice bath supplier, and in early 2025 it announced a partnership with Village Health and Wellness Clubs to roll out its ice baths at gyms across the UK. It was a significant moment for a homegrown Yorkshire brand, putting its products in front of a much wider audience.

Leeds was at the front of the queue. Members at the Village club in south Leeds were among the first to experience the upgrade, with more locations set to follow as the rollout continued.

The idea behind the partnership was to make recovery part of a regular gym visit rather than an afterthought. Founder Danyl Bosomworth described the aim in the trade press: "We're creating a holistic recovery journey that inspires long-term health and wellbeing."

That focus on wellbeing reflects how gyms are changing. Many people now look for more than treadmills and weights, wanting space to recover, reset and look after their mental health as well as their fitness. Saunas, steam rooms and cold plunges have all become part of that picture.

For Brass Monkey, the partnership also shows how a business from a Yorkshire market town can make its mark nationally. Wetherby may be better known for its racecourse and handsome high street, but it is also home to a company helping to shape how people across the country think about recovery.

If you are new to cold water, it is always sensible to start gently and follow the guidance provided by your gym or by the manufacturer. Many people begin with short sessions and build up over time.

To find out more about Brass Monkey's ice baths, or to try one, look out for them at participating Village Health and Wellness Clubs, starting with the south Leeds club, or explore the brand's own range online.