9Round, a specialized kickboxing fitness center founded by professional kickboxer Shannon Hudson and his wife Heather, opened its 400th location. After eight years of growth, the club now spans 40 states and nine countries, and follows the franchise model.

“The opening of our 400th location is not only a special day for 9Round, but a testament to the hard work of our dedicated franchise partners and their hardworking teams and, of course, our loyal members,” said Shannon Hudson. “This is only the beginning of great things to come as we continue to expand and build the 9Round brand by providing the average person championship-caliber kickboxing fitness training.”

9Round opened more than half (227) of its 400 clubs in the last two years – including the company’s first locations in Australia, Japan, Jordan, Mexico, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom – and is anticipating even more rapid expansion in the years to come. Company plans call for having a total of 1,000 locations by the end of 2018.

“Yes, we’re talking about more than doubling our international footprint. That means the next couple of years are going to be a grind. Bring it on,” said Hudson.

Photo courtesy 9Round