9Round Acquires iLoveKickboxing, Plans To Scale Brand
9Round’s CEO views ILKB’s dedicated group class format as complementary to 9Round’s more individualized concept
9Round Kickboxing Fitness now owns all 56 iLoveKickboxing locations across the U.S. and Canada following a deal to acquire the kickboxing group fitness franchise.
According to the sides, members can continue to expect the heart-driven branding of iLoveKickboxing and its scheduled group class format, while 9Round will continue to serve its members with flexible, 24/7 access and individual workouts within its nearly 500 global locations.
Financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
“We believe in the power of kickboxing to transform lives, and this acquisition allows us to share that passion with even more people,” said 9Round CEO Shannon Hudson, a professional kickboxer who founded the concept in 2008 with wife, Heather.
“Our future goal is to surpass the 100-location milestone, expanding the reach of ILKB,” Hudson added. “Right now, we are committed to supporting our existing franchise owners and, in due course, will offer new opportunities for entrepreneurs to join our thriving community.”
iLoveKickboxing, founded in 2012, offers a signature 45-minute group fitness class, while some locations host extended 60-minute and 30-minute express classes. Heart rate monitors are available to wear to optimize the kickboxing workouts, with a recap sent via email with valuable insight such as class points, Zone summary and calories burned.
The kickboxing franchise announced it had been acquired on LinkedIn, noting that the move will bring new growth opportunities. Former iLoveKickboxing CEO Dan Castellini remarked that the fitness franchisor is confident it will continue to grow and flourish under the new ownership agreement.
“ILKB’s community-focused class approach empowers individuals on their fitness journey and complements 9Round’s convenience offering,” he said. “Together, the two brands will work to promote wellness and expand the love of kickboxing across the U.S.”
9Round Drives Revenue With 24/7 Model
The South Carolina-based 9Round introduced ‘9Round 365,’ a forward-thinking and low-labor model late last year for its franchisees. The “always open” 9Round model also allows kickboxing members to drop in for a self-guided session at any time or enjoy a workout during trainer-led hours.
“The new technology empowers us to meet our members where they are in their fitness journey,” Hudson said. “During our pilot phase, we saw same-studio memberships increase by 15%, proving people are looking for more customized, tailored workouts. Whether you prefer self-guided training, a group fitness experience or personal coaching, 9Round has you covered.”
One 9Round franchisee in California experienced an 8% increase in revenue following the pilot program’s launch.
“For the first time since before the pandemic, I feel really confident that my studio and my members are on the right path to thrive,” said Steve Rousey, owner of 9Round Huntington Beach, California.
