By The Bridge,Xtech Ventures
Copyright thebridge
On the 1st, ZEAL, which operates the nationwide boxing fitness gym “ZEAL BOXING FITNESS“, announced that it has raised ¥2.9 billion in a Series A round. The round was led by XTech Ventures, with participation from Nissay Capital, W fund, and several individual investors. W fund, which invested in the previous round, also made an additional investment this time.
The company promotes the concept “Punch and Smile: A Body That Moves is Beautiful,” offering 30 to 45-minute boxing lessons that even beginners can enjoy, through both franchise and directly managed operations. According to the release, within a year of its launch, it has reached 35 locations nationwide and completed franchise agreements in all eight regional divisions. The number of paid members has also increased approximately tenfold during the same period.
The most distinctive feature of ZEAL BOXING FITNESS is its adoption of IoT sandbags, a first in Japan. Sensors inside the sandbags quantify the strength and number of punches, as well as calories burned, in real-time and display them on a screen. This setup allows for training with a feeling similar to a punching machine at an arcade, and since exercise history is stored, users can enjoy visualizing their progress.
Training is available in both fully personal formats and group lessons. Trainers with boxing experience design menus tailored to each individual’s level, allowing beginners and those lacking confidence in their physical strength to start with peace of mind. Additionally, the provision of free rentals for wear, shoes, and towels allows members to attend completely hands-free.
In addition to boxercise, muscle training using functional trainers from Kaiser is also offered. The program is designed to strengthen the core before handling weights, aiming to create a “body that moves” akin to that of an athlete.
Viewing the boxing fitness market as a “blue ocean” with limited competition, the company is developing a recommendation engine that combines apps, wearable devices, and AI. Plans include analyzing striking form and enhancing gamification elements, with an eye toward expansion into the e-sports domain.
The funds raised will be allocated toward accelerating store openings to reach a 500-location network by March 2028, strengthening headquarters functions in business development, marketing, and operations, developing new technology-driven services, and talent acquisition. Hiring is currently underway across a wide range of positions, from corporate planning to store operations.
