New Dundee athlete recovery business launched by former pro goalkeeper

As a former professional goalkeeper, Calum Brodie knows the physical and mental toll of reaching the top in sport.

Now, Monifieth-born Calum has launched a unique new venture to help sportsmen and sportswomen properly recover.

The 27-year-old, who had stints at Dundee FC and Arbroath in his youth, has run a successful goalkeeping coaching business for the past four years.

And his range of BGK Goalkeeping gloves are bestsellers in the Tannadice club shop.

However, he was keen to offer athletes in the region a space to recuperate – using science backed technology.

Athlete Recovery Zone Dundee offers high-tech equipment

Calum has teamed up with friend and kickboxer Khaelem Watt, 24, to open Athlete Recovery Zone at Skyaxe Gym in Dundee.

The facility is the first of its kind in the east of Scotland and offers a range of top-of-the-line recovery equipment, including compression boots, an ice bath and infrared sauna.

It also boasts rest and stretching areas with acupressure mats and massage guns.

Memberships for Athlete Recovery Zone begin at £40 per month for one session per week, where people can bring along a guest for free.

Calum, who has degree from Abertay University in sports coaching and development, said: “So far we have had some great feedback from users of our Athlete Recovery Zone.

“There is nothing else like it in Tayside but lots of people who could really benefit.

“Both myself and Khaelem have experience in professional sport and we know the importance of rehab and recovery – both physical and mental.

“There are a lot of recovery fads out there but we really did our research and everything we offer is backed by science.”

Different to physio

Calum is keen to stress it is “not a physiotherapy clinic” but believes Athlete Recovery Zone can compliment what physios offer to help athletes prevent injury.

“It’s a relaxing, private space you can use on your own or in a group.

“We have already had bookings from some pro fighters and Dundee FC players.”

Calum left school at 15 to play at Dens Park followed by a stint at Arbroath – But his ambition of continuing at the top did not materialise.

He secured a scholarship to move Stateside for three years, playing soccer in Mississippi, Minnesota and Louisiana.

It was while he was in the United States that he began offering goalkeeper coaching sessions for kids, which he really enjoyed.

After returning to Scotland, he spotted a gap in the market for specific goalkeeper classes and launched BGK Goalkeeping.

Going from strength to strength

The business now operates across Scotland, with 400 people of all ages – from six to 62-years-old –  taking part in sessions each week.

Calum, who is the 1st team goalkeeper for Huntly FC, coaches some of the classes himself and works with 15 self-employed coaches.

Calum added: “I feel so lucky to do what I do and am proud of everything I have achieved.

“If anything, while my dreams have changed, I am glad this is the route I ended up taking.

“I wanted to make an impact and I feel I have done that. I hope this new venture is equally successful.”

Anyone keen to try Dundee’s Athlete Recovery Zone can book a session here.