Taking the fitness industry by storm, Leeds is now home to a brand new boutique fitness studio called RYDE.
A huge £400,000 investment has brought two high-tech studios to Leeds where RYDE hopes to attract clients "from all walks of life" and facilitate an immersive workout for the entire body.
Designed to leave those working out energised and hungry for more, there's a wealth of high-impact and high-energy classes on offer, all to the beat of uplifting music to get gym-goers pumped each session.
Image: RYDE
Expect technical lighting systems, experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment befitting of a five-star hotel- and that's just the beginning.
The idea with RYDE is that it offers a personalised experience, bespoke to each individual need. With this in mind, the boutique company doesn't subscribe to long-term memberships (unless that's what you're after) and instead opts for blocks of session bookings so guests can trial a range of activities without the stress of everlasting membership.
Unique to RYDE are three classes, each with a different beat and tempo: RYDE Cycle is a full-body rhythm workout that promises to raise temperatures and challenge clients both physically and mentally whilst RYDE Flow is an athletic style yoga session concentrating on cardio sequences and strengthening the full body.
Image: RYDE Studios
Finally, RYDE Barre is a bass-heavy workout designed for lengthening, strengthening and defining muscles.
Owner Kyle Harris, a keen observer of fitness trends wanting to bring the best of what's going on in London and New York to Leeds. Speaking ahead of the launch, Kylesaid:
“In the midst of a global struggle over the past couple of years for so many, I took the opportunity to ignite my ideas and bring them to life - I am so excited for the upcoming launch of RYDE. A boutique studio in the heart of the city centre which is set to empower and inspire you in both mind, body and spirit.''
''Whether you’re on the bike, in the studio or popping in for a coffee you’ll become a part of the community from the get-go! We have future plans to expand across the UK and beyond, with Leeds as our home-hub and founding studio. This is the start of something magical and we can not wait to welcome everyone this Summer.”
Image: RYDE Studios
RYDE opened this Monday 4th July and is already proving a massive hit.
For more information, including how to sign up for the new boutique fitness experience, visit the RYDE website.
Ever-evolving Leeds music hotspot TESTBED is making its grand return to Leeds city centre with an impressive launch party lineup.
Recognised as a cultural venue for bringing people together via music, TESTBED has hosted a variety of club nights in its warehouse location since 2024.
Back in April, it was announced that the team behind this rave-centric club were transforming this space from it's 'Phase 1.3' to 'Phase 2.0'.
Now, TESTBED has released the full lineup for its upcoming launch party which will show off some of the venue's latest features like its 360-degree DJ booth, improved acoustics and 5,000 sq ft mezzanine and balcony area.
Annie Mac is headlining the TESTBED Leeds launch party joined by Horse Meat Disco / Credit: Press Shots (via supplied)
Previous performers include Liverpool dance music duo Camelphat, house music DJ Alisha, Netherlands-own Chris Stussy and more, so it will come as no surprise that this relaunch features an equally-stellar lineup.
Fronting the bill for the TESTBED Launch Party is none other than EDM connoisseur and influential figure Annie Mac, who's hosted a variety of radio shows across the BBC as well as curating a set or two herself.
Also in attendance is Horse Meat Disco, a group who put disco and queer culture at the forefront of each and every high-energy set.
Irish selector Shee is also showing off his music expertise and already having collaborations with the likes of A-trak and Karma Kid, expect to hear some tunes.
Shee and Junior Simba will be taking to the decks to wow the crowds over at TESTBED Leeds / Credit: Press Shots (via supplied)
Seasoned club DJ and presenter Marcia Carr, known for playing live sets with vinyl records, will also be soundtracking the night too, playing out everything from Afrohouse to dubstep.
Of course, it wouldn't be a Leeds-based party without some local talent courtesy of Junior Simba who's quickly become a key player in the house music scene.
And if that wasn't enough raving for you, TESTBED has already announced even more insane nights of music madness featuring ROSSI., Interplanetary Criminal and Obskür.
TESTBED's opening party is taking place on Saturday 3 October from 2pm til 12am and you can grab tickets from as little as £20 HERE.
Leeds Santa Dash is returning for 2026 and it’s set to be ‘bigger and better’ than ever
Emily Sergeant
Leeds' famous Santa Dash is returning for 2026, and it's set to be 'bigger and better' than ever.
Back by popular demand with the festive season around the corner, The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash has confirmed its return for 2026 this December, with thousands of Santas set to hit the streets of the city centre with festive fun, Christmas cheer, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
No matter whether you're taking part with your family, friends, colleagues, or little ones, organisers say it's the 'perfect way' to kick-start your festive season.
This iconic event welcomes everyone to take part - you can either jog, walk, or wheel your way around the 5K route, soaking up the sights and sounds of the city as you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, and prams are also welcome too, making it a fantastic festive day out for all ages and abilities.
And this year, it's set to be bigger and better than ever, as there's an exciting new city centre route.
All Santa suits are provided (except for those under three) with your race entry, and you'll also get an exclusive Trinity Leeds Santa Dash finisher medal once you make it over the line, as well as a festive chocolate treat to nibble on.
So, gather your fellow Santas, embrace the Christmas magic, and get ready to join one of Leeds' most joyful festive traditions.
The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash returns for 2026 on Sunday 6 December, and you can find out more and enter to take part in the race online here.
Sophie Smith -
19th May 2022 
