1997
69
$117,772
$35,000
$383,222
No
CKO Kickboxing is a dynamic fitness franchise that offers high-intensity, full-body workouts centered around real heavy bags. Founded in 1997 in Hoboken, New Jersey, by Joseph Andreula, CKO Kickboxing has transformed the fitness landscape with its unique approach to kickboxing and group fitness. The franchise began its expansion through franchising in 2007 and has since grown to over 69 locations across the United States. CKO Kickboxing's commitment to delivering effective workouts in a supportive community environment has made it a standout brand in the fitness industry.
Proven Business Model: CKO Kickboxing's focus on real heavy bag workouts has resonated with fitness enthusiasts, leading to a strong member base and consistent revenue streams.
Strong Brand Recognition: The brand's unique concept and effective marketing strategies have established CKO Kickboxing as a recognizable name in the fitness industry.
Supportive Franchise System: Franchisees benefit from comprehensive training, ongoing support, and a community of like-minded entrepreneurs dedicated to mutual success.
Scalable Growth Potential: With prime territories still available, franchisees have opportunities for single-unit ownership or multi-unit development, allowing for scalable business growth.
Established: 1997 in Hoboken, New Jersey
Franchising Since: 2007
Parent Company: Club KO Franchise LLC
Founder: Joseph Andreula
CEO: Joseph Andreula
Franchise Units: Over 69 locations across the United States
Industry Category: Health and Wellness – Fitness Kickboxing
CKO Kickboxing's journey began in a modest warehouse in Hoboken, New Jersey, where the first gym was established. The innovative concept quickly gained popularity, leading to multiple locations in New Jersey by 2004. Recognizing the potential for broader impact, the company began franchising in 2007, expanding its reach and influence in the fitness industry.
CKO Kickboxing provides a comprehensive and structured support system to ensure franchisees succeed from pre-launch to ongoing operations. This includes:
Site Selection Assistance: Guidance in choosing high-traffic, strategic locations with optimal visibility and accessibility for fitness enthusiasts.
Lease Negotiation Help: Expertise to negotiate favorable lease terms and rental agreements.
Facility Design & Build-Out: Support in designing and building out your gym to meet CKO’s standards, including equipment layout, flooring, lighting, and décor.
Permitting & Compliance: Assistance with local permits, zoning laws, and safety regulations to ensure the gym opens without legal hurdles.
Operations Training: In-depth training on day-to-day operations, class management, staffing, scheduling, and customer service best practices.
Fitness & Academic Training: Instruction on proper kickboxing techniques, class formats, safety procedures, and teaching methods. Franchisees may also attend instructor certification programs.
Marketing Training: Education on marketing strategies, local advertising campaigns, social media promotion, and membership drives.
Financial Training: Guidance on budgeting, cash flow management, payroll, and revenue tracking to ensure sustainable business operations.
Operational Support: Continuous access to CKO’s support team for troubleshooting challenges, improving operational efficiency, and implementing best practices.
Marketing Support: Provision of national campaigns, promotional materials, templates, and guidance to drive memberships and retain clients.
Technology Assistance: Training and support for CKO’s proprietary software for scheduling, membership management, and tracking performance metrics.
Franchisee Network: Opportunities to connect with other franchise owners, share knowledge, and learn from successful peers.
Annual Convention & Workshops: Franchisees attend events for networking, learning new techniques, and staying updated with industry trends.
New Program Launch Support: Training and guidance for introducing new classes, services, or fitness programs to maintain member engagement.
CKO Kickboxing seeks franchisees who are not just investors, but passionate entrepreneurs who can uphold the brand’s mission of delivering high-quality fitness experiences. The ideal franchisee possesses a combination of business acumen, fitness enthusiasm, and community focus.
A genuine interest in health, wellness, and fitness.
Commitment to promoting a healthy lifestyle and helping members achieve personal fitness goals.
Enthusiasm for group kickboxing workouts and ability to inspire participants.
Experience in managing teams, operations, or small businesses is preferred, but not mandatory.
Strong leadership and organizational skills to manage staff, classes, and day-to-day operations effectively.
Ability to implement standard operating procedures and maintain high operational standards.
Willingness to take initiative and drive business growth through marketing, local networking, and community engagement.
Interest in building and scaling a fitness business, with the potential to expand to multiple locations over time.
Resilience and adaptability to handle challenges in the competitive fitness market.
Ability to meet the initial investment requirements, including franchise fee, infrastructure, working capital, and marketing budget.
Access to liquid capital and net worth that aligns with CKO’s financial guidelines.
Willingness to reinvest in marketing, promotions, and staff development to grow membership.
Strong desire to create a welcoming, motivating environment for members.
Ability to build long-term relationships with clients and foster a loyal community.
Interest in local outreach, partnerships, and events that increase brand visibility.
Ideal candidates are interested in operating in areas with a high demand for fitness services.
Preference for locations with population density that supports regular class attendance and growth potential.
Flexibility to adapt to market needs while maintaining CKO’s standardized brand experience.
| Financial Component | Details / Range |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $35,000 |
| Total Initial Investment | $117,772 – $383,222 |
| Liquid Capital Required | $60,000 – $65,000 |
| Net Worth Requirement | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| Royalty Fee | 7% of gross revenue |
| Marketing Fee | 1% of gross revenue |
| Working Capital | $12,000 – $75,000 |
| Infrastructure / Build-Out Cost | Included in total investment; varies by location and size |
| Equipment & Fixtures | $20,000 – $50,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $25,000 – $100,000 |
| Technology / Software | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Training & Opening Support | Included in franchise fee |
| Break-Even Time | 12 – 24 months, depending on market and management |
| Expected ROI | Varies by location; competitive within the fitness industry |
| Potential Revenue Streams | Membership fees, personal training, specialty classes, merchandise sales, events |
| Annual Marketing Budget | $5,000 – $15,000 (in addition to 1% royalty marketing fee contribution) |
