Contributing Writer

9Round is a global fitness brand with more than 700 locations in 18 countries. Maine’s very first 9Round is now open right here in Gorham at 18 Elm Street. Ted, Melissa and Terra Rioux are the proud owners of this family owned and operated business. Doors opened on March 9 and Ted Rioux said they are very pleased with the response in these first few weeks. He added that the community support has been wonderful and they are “thrilled to be part of the Gorham business community.”

Ted was introduced to 9Round through his previous position in the medical device industry, which he held for twenty years. While he has degrees in Biology, English, and Business, he really enjoys the business aspect. Melissa is a Registered Nurse at Maine Medical Center. She has been involved in the fitness industry her entire life; as an athlete, a competitor, and a trainer. In addition to a Nursing degree, she also has a degree in Health and Fitness and is a certified Fitness Nutrition Specialist. Together, with his business and leadership sense and her health and fitness background, they looked at the information presented to them about 9Round and decided to bring a “world class fitness option” to Gorham.

This is not your typical gym. 9Round is a fast, full body, 30 minute circuit workout. Rioux said the 9Round program works for men and women across all age groups. On the first visit, which is always free, the trainer explains fully how the program works. Three minutes are spent at each station with thirty seconds of body weight exercises in between. There are no set class times and a trainer is included to provide personal attention. Workouts incorporate aerobic (cardio), anaerobic and full-body resistance training.

Photo credit Roger Marchand
Owner Ted Rioux helps Anna Sedenka while she works on the light bag.

9Round uses a heart rate monitoring system called PULSE. Members wear a monitor during the workout and can view their heart rate throughout the session by way of television screens hanging in the club. Each member picks a fighter name, which is both motivating and personal, making it easy to identify feedback throughout the workout.

9Round trainers work to help members maintain the right intensity level throughout the workout to ensure optimal results. The PULSE system provides information to the individual that includes heart rate, calories burned, and PULSE points, which are based on time spent in the various heart rate zones (yellow is best).

There are eight trained and certified 9Round trainers. All have a passion for helping people reach goals for better health. “I couldn’t be happier with this team,” said Ted.

Nutrition guidance is also offered to those training at 9Round. The nutrition program is scientifically proven to help reach fitness goals. Melissa is the Lead Nutrition Coach at 9Round and offers sessions for members to help get them started with the 9Round Nutrition Program. There are custom meal plans and guidance on portion size and caloric intake needs. In addition to nutrition guidance, 9Round also offers a line of nutrition supplements.

Ted added that the mission of 9Round is to provide those training at the facility with “a fast and effective workout in a safe and sanitary envi- ronment, all while having some fun.” Stop in and try it out. You’ll see that 9Round lives up to expectations.

For more information, call 9Round at 207-839-2860, find them online, or stop in at 18 Elm Street (next to Carter’s Auto).