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Rates
9Round

9Round

Franchising since 2008 · 200 locations

The total investment to open a 9Round franchise ranges from $149,449 - $416,300. The initial franchise fee is $24,900. Ongoing royalties are 6% plus a 2% advertising fee. 9Round currently operates 200 locations (199 franchised). PeerSense FPI health score: 36/100. Data sourced from the 2026 Franchise Disclosure Document.

Investment

$149,449 - $416,300

Franchise Fee

$24,900

Total Units

200

199 franchised

FPI Score
High
36

Proprietary PeerSense metric

Fair
Capital Partners
47lenders available

Active capital sources verified for 9Round financing

SBA

7(a) Eligible

21d

Avg Funding

P+2.25%

Best Rate

No retainers · Referral fee at closing

FPI Score Breakdown

Major Brand (100+ loans)

High Confidence
36out of 100
Fair

SBA Lending Performance

SBA Default Rate

20.3%

24 of 118 loans charged off

SBA Loans

118

Total Volume

$11.3M

Active Lenders

47

States

35

What is the 9Round franchise?

9round, established in 2008, has meticulously carved a distinctive and highly successful niche within the ever-expanding Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers category, quickly asserting its market presence with a focused, results-oriented approach to personal fitness. Headquartered in Costa Mesa, CA, this innovative brand has consistently demonstrated its compelling business model and widespread consumer appeal, growing to encompass a significant 49 units across various markets. The core philosophy underpinning the 9round franchise centers on delivering an exceptionally efficient, full-body workout experience meticulously designed to integrate seamlessly into modern, often demanding, lifestyles. Unlike many traditional gym environments that frequently require members to adhere to rigid and often inconvenient class schedules, 9round pioneered a unique circuit training format where a new workout session commences every three minutes. This groundbreaking approach effectively eliminates the common frustration of waiting for a class to start, providing unparalleled flexibility for its members. This inherent convenience, critically coupled with the integral presence of a qualified trainer consistently on the floor at all times, delivers a personalized yet highly accessible fitness solution. The workout itself is a dynamic, kickboxing-themed routine, expertly crafted to target strength, cardio, and core muscles, all compacted into an incredibly effective 30-minute session. This specialized and highly engaging offering positions the 9round franchise distinctly within the thriving boutique fitness segment, resonating strongly with individuals who actively seek engaging, challenging, and time-efficient exercise programs without the intimidation traditionally associated with martial arts studios or the potential monotony of conventional gym equipment. The brand's unwavering commitment to a trainer-guided, no-class-time structure ensures a consistent, high-quality, and motivating member experience across its rapidly expanding footprint, a key driver of both member retention and the fostering of a strong sense of community within each location. The unique blend of practical kickboxing techniques with functional fitness elements makes the 9round franchise a particularly compelling opportunity for entrepreneurs eager to tap into the ever-growing demand for specialized, convenient, and truly effective health and wellness solutions.

The fitness and recreational sports industry continues to demonstrate exceptionally robust growth, fundamentally driven by an escalating consumer awareness of the critical importance of health and wellness, synergistically coupled with a persistent and evolving demand for innovative and highly accessible exercise solutions. This dynamic and resilient sector, which serves as the operational landscape for the 9round franchise, has undergone significant evolutionary shifts over the past two decades. The industry has demonstrably moved beyond the era of large, often undifferentiated, generalist gym models towards more specialized, experience-driven, and community-focused offerings. Boutique fitness studios, characterized by their niche workout focus, high-intensity programming, and strong emphasis on community engagement, have strategically emerged as a dominant force, successfully capturing a substantial and increasing share of the overall market spend. Modern consumers are increasingly seeking tangible value beyond mere access to equipment; they actively desire expert guided instruction, deeply motivating environments, and workout routines that consistently deliver measurable results within a concise timeframe. The growing emphasis on personalized attention, frequently facilitated by on-demand trainers or small group settings, perfectly aligns with contemporary preferences for tailored and impactful fitness experiences. Furthermore, the convenience factor plays an absolutely critical role in consumer decision-making, with a significant portion of individuals prioritizing workout formats that can be effortlessly integrated into their demanding daily schedules. This burgeoning demand for efficient, engaging, and flexible fitness options creates an exceptionally fertile ground for innovative concepts such as the 9round franchise. As the broader market continues its upward trajectory, fueled by favorable demographic shifts, an intensified focus on preventative health measures, and the digitalization of wellness, businesses that can effectively combine specialized programming with operational agility are unequivocally well-positioned for sustained and significant success. The inherent resilience of the fitness industry and its proven capacity for continuous innovation underscore the long-term viability and profound attractiveness of investing in established, yet forward-thinking, franchise models.

Embarking on the journey to own a 9round franchise involves a meticulously structured investment profile, specifically designed to facilitate the efficient establishment and ultimately successful operation of a new, vibrant fitness studio. The initial franchise fee for a single 9round unit is precisely set at $30,000, representing the foundational financial commitment for acquiring the invaluable rights to operate under the globally recognized brand name and to leverage its extensively developed, proprietary operating system, a system honed since 2008. This crucial initial fee grants comprehensive access to the brand’s extensive training programs, detailed operational manuals, and the critical ongoing support necessary for a successful launch and sustained growth. Beyond this initial franchise fee, the total estimated investment required to open a 9round franchise spans a robust range from $22,000 to $182,400. This broad yet clearly defined spectrum accounts for various critical expenditures that are absolutely necessary to transform an empty commercial space into a fully functional, branded, and inviting fitness center that consistently delivers the signature 9round experience. Key components encompassed within this total investment typically include significant leasehold improvements, which involve the precise design, construction, and finishing of the interior to meet stringent brand specifications, thereby ensuring a consistent and high-quality member experience across all 49 units. Additionally, the investment comprehensively covers the procurement of all specialized fitness equipment essential for the brand’s unique kickboxing-themed workouts, including a full complement of punching bags, training gloves, focus mitts, and other specific training apparatus. Initial inventory for any retail merchandise, along with essential computer systems, prominent exterior and interior signage, and robust security installations, also falls within this calculated range. Working capital represents another profoundly significant element, ensuring that the franchisee possesses sufficient liquid funds to comfortably cover initial operating expenses such as rent, utilities, carefully planned initial marketing campaigns, and payroll, particularly during the crucial ramp-up phase before the business achieves full self-sufficiency and positive cash flow. The inherent variability in the total investment range is often influenced by dynamic factors such as the specific geographic location of the studio, prevailing local construction costs, the size and initial condition of the leased property, and the unique market conditions that may necessitate different levels of initial marketing spend to establish the 9round franchise presence. Understanding the comprehensive and multifaceted nature of this investment is paramount for any prospective owner diligently evaluating the compelling 9round franchise opportunity.

The operational blueprint of a 9round franchise is meticulously engineered for optimal efficiency, profound member engagement, and exceptional ease of management, factors that have collectively contributed significantly to its sustained and impressive growth trajectory since its founding in 2008. At the very core of this highly effective model is the signature 30-minute, full-body kickboxing workout circuit, a program that ingeniously requires no fixed class times, thereby affording members the unparalleled flexibility to commence their workout whenever they arrive at the studio. This distinctive "no class times" structure stands as a significant differentiator within the fitness industry, maximizing both facility utilization and member convenience, a critical aspect of its appeal. Every single workout is diligently guided by a certified 9round trainer, who is consistently present on the floor, providing invaluable motivation, expertly demonstrating techniques, and meticulously ensuring proper form. This elevates the member experience far beyond what typical self-service or unguided gym environments can offer. This consistent and hands-on trainer presence is absolutely fundamental to the brand's unique value proposition and its proven success across its 49 units. From a franchisee's strategic perspective, the operating model inherently benefits from a relatively compact physical footprint compared to the often expansive requirements of large conventional gyms, which can translate into appreciably lower overhead costs in terms of rent, utilities, and facility maintenance. The comprehensive franchise system provides extensive initial training, meticulously covering all essential facets of studio operation, ranging from expert fitness instruction and effective member sales strategies to critical administrative duties and innovative local marketing implementation. This foundational training rigorously equips new owners and their dedicated staff with the profound knowledge and practical skills necessary to consistently deliver the authentic signature 9round experience. Ongoing support encompasses continuous access to proprietary operational software, a wealth of expertly designed marketing collateral and campaigns, and continuous coaching from seasoned franchise support teams. This comprehensive support structure is vital for maintaining impeccable brand consistency across all 49 locations and empowers franchisees to effectively manage their local businesses and deftly navigate the dynamic market conditions within the competitive Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers category.

While specific average financial performance metrics for the 9round franchise, such as system-wide revenue figures, individual unit profitability benchmarks, or detailed average member acquisition costs, are not provided for public dissemination within this summary, it is entirely possible to discuss the inherent mechanisms and fundamental operational drivers that are pivotal in contributing to financial success within this specialized fitness model, operational since 2008. The primary revenue generation model for a 9round franchise fundamentally relies on recurring membership fees, a highly desirable characteristic in any robust, subscription-based business, offering predictable and stable income streams once a solid and engaged member base is firmly established. The critical ability to attract and, even more importantly, to consistently retain members is paramount, a factor directly driven by the unwavering quality of the workout experience, the consistent effectiveness and motivational prowess of the certified trainers, and the overall positive community atmosphere diligently cultivated within each of the 49 units. Operational efficiency also plays an absolutely significant role in driving profitability. The relatively compact studio size and the streamlined, circuit-based workout system can lead to optimized staffing levels and substantially reduced facility overhead expenses when compared to larger, multi-amenity gym complexes. Effective and targeted local marketing strategies, encompassing both proactive community outreach and dynamic digital engagement, are absolutely essential for driving initial member enrollment and maintaining a healthy, continuous pipeline of prospective clients. Furthermore, the recurring nature of the fitness service inherently means that a high member retention rate directly and positively correlates to sustained revenue growth and significantly improved long-term profitability for the 9round franchise owner. Franchisees who consistently excel at delivering exceptional customer service, fostering a truly motivating and inclusive environment, and diligently implementing the proven 9round system are typically exceptionally well-positioned to maximize their earning potential within the highly competitive Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers segment. Strategic pricing models, carefully curated promotional offerings, and the proactive cultivation of strong referral networks further contribute significantly to the overall financial health and sustained success of individual franchise locations, emphatically emphasizing the profound importance of diligent management and unwavering adherence to established best practices for the 9round franchise.

Since its inception in 2008, the 9round franchise has unequivocally demonstrated a consistent and strategically managed growth trajectory, expanding its reach to a commendable 49 units, a clear testament to the enduring appeal and robust operational viability of its truly unique fitness concept. This steady and impressive expansion within the intensely competitive Fitness and Recreational Sports Centers market is largely and directly attributable to several distinct and powerful competitive advantages that profoundly differentiate the brand from its peers. Foremost among these is the proprietary 30-minute, full-body kickboxing workout, which masterfully provides a high-intensity, exceptionally efficient exercise solution perfectly tailored for individuals navigating the constraints of limited time. This specific and highly effective workout format, crucially combined with the innovative "no class times" model, ingeniously eliminates common barriers to gym attendance, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience that resonates exceptionally strongly with today's discerning consumers. Another absolutely critical differentiator for the 9round franchise is the integral inclusion of a certified trainer with every single workout session. This personalized coaching and consistent motivation ensure that members receive expert guidance, maximize their individual results, and maintain high levels of engagement, a premium level of service often found only in significantly higher-priced personal training sessions elsewhere in the industry. The relatively small physical footprint required for a 9round studio significantly contributes to its inherent scalability, making the model remarkably adaptable to a diverse range of commercial real estate opportunities and potentially reducing initial build-out costs and ongoing operational expenses for franchisees. The brand's unwavering focus on delivering a specialized, highly engaging, and results-driven workout experience actively helps foster a strong sense of community and camaraderie among its members, which in turn drives profound loyalty and invaluable positive word-of-mouth referrals. These combined elements—unmatched efficiency, unparalleled flexibility, personalized expert training, and a vibrant community—form a robust and formidable foundation for continued growth and profoundly distinguish the 9round franchise in an increasingly crowded fitness landscape, appealing powerfully to a broad demographic actively seeking an effective, enjoyable, and sustainable path to superior wellness.

The ideal candidate for a 9round franchise is an individual who possesses a profound and genuine passion for health and wellness, synergistically combined with a robust entrepreneurial spirit and an unwavering commitment to operational excellence. While prior experience within the dynamic fitness industry can certainly be beneficial, it is not an absolute prerequisite, as the brand’s comprehensive training and support system, meticulously refined since 2008, is specifically designed to equip franchisees with all the necessary knowledge and practical skills. Key attributes for success include strong leadership abilities, a proven capacity for building and inspiring a dedicated team of trainers, and exceptional interpersonal skills to consistently foster a welcoming, motivating, and highly engaging environment for members across the 49 units. A proactive and consistent approach to local marketing and active community engagement is also crucially important for driving sustained membership growth and enhancing brand visibility. From a financial perspective, prospective franchisees should possess the necessary liquid capital and overall net worth to comfortably meet the specified investment range of $22,000 to $182,400, demonstrating financial readiness for this significant venture. Regarding territory selection, successful 9round franchise locations typically thrive in high-visibility areas with convenient access and ample, accessible parking, ideally situated within communities that consistently demonstrate a strong demographic interest and engagement in health and fitness activities. Locations strategically positioned near vibrant residential areas, bustling corporate parks, or active retail centers with complementary businesses are often particularly favorable, ensuring a steady flow of potential members and maximizing market penetration. The

FPI Score

36/100

SBA Default Rate

20.3%

Active Lenders

47

Key Highlights

200 locations nationwide

Data Insights

Key performance metrics for 9Round based on SBA lending data

SBA Default Rate

20.3%

24 of 118 loans charged off

SBA Loan Volume

118 loans

Across 47 lenders

Lender Diversity

47 lenders

Avg 2.5 loans per lender

Investment Tier

Mid-range investment

$149,449 – $416,300 total

Payment Estimator

Loan Amount$120K
Interest Rate9.5%
Term (Years)10 yr

Estimated Monthly Payment

$1,547

Principal & Interest only

Locations

9Roundunit breakdown

Total Units
N/A
Franchisee Owned
System Owned
Closed

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