9Round, a kickboxing boxing fitness franchise, has opened at 4635 Cortez Road W in the Bradenton Commons/Publix Plaza.

The franchise was developed by kickboxing champion Shannon “The Cannon” Hudson and currently has 400 clubs in 38 states and eight nations. Workouts consist of nine, three-minute stations of activities that include cardio, weight training, abdominal exercises and kicks and punches on 100-pound, double-end, upper cut and speed bags. A boxing bell rings to begin the workout, another to warn the station is ending and a third to signal the end.

“Our goal is to help people reach their physical fitness goals, nine rounds at a time,” said local franchise owner Darcy Bessette. “There is something empowering about kickboxing – it is the sense of empowerment that appeals to most people."

First time visitors get a free 30-minute workout session.  For more information, visit or call the gym directly at 941-316-3326.