9Round Kickboxing Revamps Experience for Members, Franchisees
9Round franchisees can now offer a 24/7/365 model, which promises to enhance the member experience while trimming operational costs
As aspiring fitness entrepreneurs continue to eye the numerous benefits of franchising systems, one South Carolina-based kickboxing franchise has improved the member experience franchisees can provide while also lowering their operational costs.
The new tech-forward and low-labor concept from 9Round Kickboxing, dubbed “9Round 365,” brings a fitness screen to its nine stations, with workouts changing daily. Throughout the 30-minute circuit, members are told when to change stations by a guiding voice timer system.
The model provides members with increased flexibility and offers franchise owners the chance to boost revenue.
“The new technology empowers us to meet our members where they are in their fitness journey,” said Shannon Hudson, co-founder and CEO of 9Round Kickboxing. “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.”
As Hudson noted in a video explaining the latest franchisee offering, implementing screen technology allows 9Round members to have two separate experiences: a high-touch, high-energy instructional session if members come during trainer-led hours or a self-guided session any other time, night or day.
A Kickboxing Success Story
Hudson, a professional kickboxer, founded the 9Round franchise in 2008 with his wife. The kickboxing franchise, with a copyrighted system of nine workout stations created by Hudson, has grown to nearly 500 locations in 41 states and 17 countries.
In light of its “always open” model, the kickboxing franchise has teamed up with a security and door access system and is using surveillance cameras and panic buttons that promptly deploy emergency responders to ensure the safety of members. In addition to its approach to safety, 9Round’s member management software has been synced to door access to provide trackable, real-time data.
9Round’s headquarters can also access and support the screen technology remotely, so franchise owners are free from needing on-site IT support.
“We are dedicated to supporting our owners every step of the way, and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to succeed, starting with a 5-day training program at our headquarters,” Hudson said. “Our goal is to assist owners with a smooth site selection and buildout process and give them the tools to generate revenue before they even open with pre-sale marketing.”
Steve Rousey, a 9Round franchise owner in Huntington Beach, California, reported an 8% increase in revenue after launching the pilot program.
“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,” Rousey said.
