9Round franchise startup costs run $93K–$176K for a kickboxing-style HIIT fitness studio with a 30-minute circuit workout format. The brand operates approximately 750 studios and offers one of the lowest entry-cost models in the boutique fitness franchise sector.
9Round is a kickboxing-inspired high-intensity interval training (HIIT) fitness franchise built around a 30-minute circuit workout format. Founded in 2008 in Greenville, South Carolina, by Shannon and Heather Hudson, 9Round operates approximately 750 studios globally. The concept's signature structure is nine 3-minute stations — heavy bags, speed bags, resistance equipment, and bodyweight exercises — rotating continuously so members begin their workout the moment they walk in, without waiting for a class to start. This "no class time, start anytime" model differentiates 9Round from traditional group fitness formats and reduces staffing complexity, as a single trainer can coach the floor rather than leading a scheduled class. The relatively small footprint required (1,200–1,600 square feet typical), combined with simple equipment compared to full-service gyms, keeps startup costs among the lowest in boutique fitness franchising.
Per the current FDD, total estimated initial investment for a 9Round franchise runs $93,000–$176,000. The compact studio format and equipment-centric model keeps build-out costs well below most fitness franchise concepts:
9Round franchisees pay a 7% royalty on net sales plus a 2% advertising fund contribution — for a combined 9% of net sales. The 7% royalty is at the higher end for boutique fitness concepts; however, the low entry investment and low overhead model means that absolute royalty dollars at typical unit volumes remain manageable. The 2% advertising fund supports 9Round's national digital marketing, social media campaigns, and lead generation infrastructure that flows membership leads to franchisees.
9Round requires prospective franchisees to demonstrate net worth of $250,000 or more and liquid capital of $50,000 or more. The liquid capital requirement is notably low relative to most franchise concepts — reflecting the lower all-in investment and the lower staffing overhead of the circuit training model. Fitness or personal training background is helpful but not required. 9Round evaluates candidates on sales and marketing orientation, community engagement, and financial stability.
9Round is listed on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan processing. Common financing paths:
9Round is on the SBA Franchise Directory, qualifying franchisees for expedited SBA loan eligibility. At $93K–$176K, SBA 7(a) is the standard financing path. Underwriters evaluate:
Most 9Round loans are SBA 7(a) term loans at 10-year terms covering franchise fee + leasehold improvements + equipment + working capital. After 10–20% equity injection at the $93K–$176K range, loan amounts run $74K–$141K. Equipment financing for heavy bags and specialized fitness gear is a common supplement to reduce the SBA loan principal. At the lower end of the investment range, SBA Microloans (up to $50K) may cover a significant portion of startup costs. See SBA 7(a) vs. equipment financing for the structural tradeoff.
ClearValue Lending works with boutique fitness franchise operators on SBA and equipment financing structures. Apply at Find my match. Your file routes to one matched lender.
Per the current FDD, total estimated initial investment runs $93,000–$176,000. The compact studio format (1,200–1,600 sqft) and equipment-focused model keeps investment well below most boutique fitness concepts.
9Round uses nine 3-minute stations in a continuous circuit format. Members begin their workout the moment they arrive — there are no scheduled class times to wait for. A single trainer coaches the floor throughout the circuit, reducing staffing complexity versus traditional group fitness models.
9Round charges a 7% royalty on net sales plus a 2% advertising fund contribution, for a combined 9% of net sales.
9Round studios typically occupy 1,200–1,600 square feet of inline retail or commercial space — smaller than most fitness studio formats, which reduces lease costs and makes the brand accessible in a wider range of markets and shopping centers.
Yes. 9Round is on the SBA Franchise Directory. SBA 7(a) covers franchise fee, leasehold improvements, equipment, and working capital. Equipment financing for heavy bags and specialized fitness gear can supplement the primary loan.
SBA SOP 50 10 7 sets the minimum global DSCR at 1.15× — projected net cash flow must cover all debt obligations at 1.15× or better. Most SBA participating lenders require 1.25×–1.35× for franchise startups. For 9Round, lenders build the DSCR from recurring membership revenue (monthly dues × projected active member count), net of the 9% combined fee load (7% royalty + 2% ad), lease, trainer payroll, and operating costs. The membership ramp period (3–6 months to break-even member count) is the key working capital sizing variable. Source: SBA SOP 50 10 7.
Borrowers must inject equity from personal funds — not borrowed for this purpose — per SBA SOP 50 10 7. For 9Round's $93K–$176K range, equity injection runs $9K–$35K (10–20% of project cost) — among the lowest absolute requirements in boutique fitness SBA lending. Equity is documented at closing with bank statements showing funds seasoned for 60+ days.