Home » The KIPS Podcast » Why Kickboxing is the Top-Grossing Specialization in 2026 feat. Shannon Hudson

Key Takeaways: The Business of Kickboxing in 2026

• The Top-Grossing Niche: Kickboxing is currently the highest-grossing fitness specialization, with specialized coaches often commanding double the hourly rate of general personal trainers.
• Superior Client Retention: Technical striking programs see a 30% higher retention rate compared to traditional cardio, as clients focus on skill-building rather than just calorie counting.
• Accessibility for Trainers: You do not need a professional fighting background to lead these sessions. Modern certifications focus on safe biomechanics of the blow and effective mitt work for general populations.
• Scaling with Groups: Kickboxing allows trainers to move from 1:1 sessions to high-energy group fitness settings, increasing revenue per hour without increasing work time.
• Demographic Shift: There is a significant surge in female participation in kickboxing, driven by the desire for functional self-defense skills combined with high-intensity interval training (HIIT).
• CEU Efficiency: Many kickboxing specialty certifications act as a CEU shortcut, allowing you to fulfill your biennial recertification requirements while adding a new revenue stream.

As a kickboxing instructor, you can extend your career in the fitness industry. Kickboxing is quickly becoming a high-revenue specialty, attracting a wide range of clients from beginners to experienced athletes. Adding kickboxing to your training options can boost client engagement, motivation, and dedication to their fitness goals. Shannon Hudson, CEO of Striking Brands—which owns 9Round Kickboxing and I Love Kickboxing—offers insights on how kickboxing workouts are effective and ways trainers can boost client retention. With extensive experience in fitness, Shannon has committed himself to mastering kickboxing and helping others learn to teach it.

Why Kickboxing is the Top-Grossing Specialization for Trainers

Kickboxing at the gym is a dynamic and engaging fitness program that combines elements of martial arts with high-intensity cardio, making it a favorite among various fitness enthusiasts. Its popularity has surged, particularly among women, as it provides a powerful workout that emphasizes strength, endurance, and coordination. In 2026, kickboxing is expected to be among the top-grossing specializations, attracting a diverse audience from beginners to seasoned athletes.

As a personal trainer, incorporating kickboxing into your program can enhance client engagement and retention. Clients often report increased motivation and enjoyment from kickboxing classes, leading to longer commitment to the classes. Kickboxing is also highly effective for burning calories and improving overall fitness levels. Its ability to combine functional strength training with cardiovascular conditioning makes it an excellent choice for clients looking to break through plateaus and achieve their fitness goals while having fun.

Kickboxing Education in 2026

Getting certified as a kickboxing instructor can significantly enhance your skills as a personal trainer and boost your client offerings. Popular programs like 9Round and I Love Kickboxing provide comprehensive training, focusing on technique, class structure, and effective coaching strategies. These certifications not only equip you to lead high-energy classes but also emphasize safety and injury prevention. As kickboxing continues to gain popularity, having these credentials can set you apart in a competitive market. Additionally, incorporating kickboxing into your training repertoire can help clients reach their fitness goals while enjoying an engaging, dynamic workout.

Transitioning from 1:1 Training to High-Energy Group Fitness

To be an effective kickboxing instructor, regular practice is essential. Continuously honing your skills ensures you can demonstrate techniques accurately and confidently. Additionally, focus on becoming an effective public speaker; clear communication keeps your class engaged and motivated. Use a strong voice, encourage participation, and infuse your sessions with enthusiasm to create a positive atmosphere.

Mastering proper mitt-holding techniques is also crucial. Effective mitt work enhances your clients’ training experience and helps prevent injuries. Pay close attention to your students’ striking forms and provide constructive feedback while demonstrating correct pad placement and timing.

By combining consistent practice, strong communication, and effective mitt work, you’ll create an engaging and safe environment that supports your clients’ kickboxing journeys.

Shannon “The Cannon” Hudson is the proud CEO of Striking Brands, the parent company of 9Round Kickboxing Fitness and I Love Kickboxing. At an early age, Hudson trained in martial arts and went on to become an IKF Light Middleweight Kickboxing World Champion. He also co-founded the first 9Round studio with his wife, Heather “The Hero” in 2008. Hudson continues to be driven by his passion for what he calls “the two most noble causes”—creating business opportunities and jobs in local communities through franchising and licensing, and positively impacting people’s health and fitness through local studios. Today, Shannon is focused on creating kickboxing fitness coaches under the ILKB Banner so passionate fitness enthusiasts can easily add this modality to their training regimes.