Beginner-Friendly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Ellsworth, Maine

Train for fitness, confidence, self-defense, and fun!

No experience required!

No experience? Perfect!

You’re in the Right Place

Most of our students walked in nervous and unsure where to start. Our beginner friendly classes makes sure everyone is supported, no matter your experience level. You don’t need to be athletic, flexible, or have previous experience! Just take the first step.

Two men practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on a gray mat, one in a white gi and the other in a dark gi, engaged in a grappling move.
Two individuals practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on a padded mat, with others seated against the wall observing.
Two young children practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on a mat, with one child on top in a dominant position and the other child underneath, both wearing gis.

When Can You Train?

Kids Class Sample

Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 5-6 PM

Adult Class Sample

Fundamentals Monday/Tuesday/Thursday 6:15-7:30 PM

Full Schedule

Pricing

  • Flexible training options to fit your schedule—train once or twice per week, or enjoy unlimited access to all adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu classes. Choose the plan that matches your goals and lifestyle.

  • Our kids program builds confidence, discipline, and self-defense skills in a fun, supportive environment. Flexible weekly options are available, including unlimited training for growing athletes.

Memberships

Jiu-Jitsu Programs

Two men practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu on mats inside a dojo, one man in a white gi sitting with his legs crossed and the other man in a white gi kneeling and leaning forward to apply a technique, with a third man in the background also in a gi.

Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is a systems-based martial art focused on distance management on the feet, takedowns, and control on the ground with submissions being the end goal. Our adult classes are welcoming to beginners and structured to help you learn safely and confidently.

Who this is for

  • Adults of all fitness levels

  • Complete beginners with no experience

  • People looking for self-defense, fitness, hard work, and fun!

What to expect

  • Diverse warm-ups

  • Technique instruction and drilling

  • Partner work at a comfortable pace

  • Optional live training as you progress

Start your 3-Class Trial- Adults
Group of five young boys in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu uniforms standing on a mat in a gym, smiling, posing, and making gestures after practice or competition.

Kids Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Our kids program teaches confidence, coordination, and discipline through age-appropriate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instruction in a safe, positive environment.

Who this is for

  • Ages 4–12

  • No experience required

  • Kids of all personalities and energy levels

What to expect

  • Fun and challenging warm-ups

  • Movement-based drills and games

  • Basic grappling techniques

  • Emphasis on respect, teamwork, and fun

Start Your 3-Class Trial- Kids

Meet Your Instructor

Experienced instruction in a welcoming, beginner-friendly environment.

Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is led by an experienced instructor focused on building strong fundamentals, safe training habits, and steady progress.

Classes are structured to challenge students without overwhelming them, creating an environment where beginners and experienced practitioners can train together productively.

The goal is simple: help students improve, stay consistent, and enjoy the process.

Kris Douglas - Head Instructor and Owner and Brown Belt In Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

  • A woman standing in front of India Gate at night, smiling, wearing a light blue top

    Empowered, resilient, and grounded

    “As a student living abroad, I face many challenges and emotional obstacles in my daily life. However, Acadia BJJ has become a sanctuary, providing not just physical strength, but mental resilience. It has helped me stay grounded and prepared to handle life’s ups and downs, no matter where I am." - Bidhi D., Bar Harbor, ME

    3-Class Trial - Adults
  • A man smiling, wearing a white martial arts gi, sitting in front of a padded wall.

    Positive culture, expert training

    “I have trained here for 13 years with Kris and have loved it! Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has created a friendly, positive, hardworking, and safe culture.” - Aaron S., Southwest Harbor, ME

    Try Today!
  • Two children stand in front of a penguin exhibit at a zoo, with penguins and a rocky background visible behind them.

    Empowerment and Transformation

    “Acadia BJJ has been a huge part of our lives since 2018. It has given my kids confidence, responsibility, and self-discipline. It’s been amazing to watch them grow from beginners to mentors for newer students." - Ashley W., Southwest Harbor, ME

    Go for it!
  • Man smiling in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi at a martial arts training facility, with students practicing in the background.

    Family training with real value

    “Training at Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been life-changing for me and my family. The family discounts make it even more accessible, allowing us to train together and strengthen our bond.” - Jerry T., Dedham, ME

    3-Class Trial - Adults

  • Confidence

    “Since joining Jiu-Jitsu at 4, our son, now 5, has loved the classes and learned a lot! His confidence has grown, going from 'I can't do it!' to always trying his best and keeping up in friendly competitions. It's amazing to see his progress.” - Ray S., Hancock, ME

    3-Class Trial - Kids
  • Man wearing glasses and a white martial arts uniform holding a certificate in a frame.

    Community-driven learning

    “At Acadia BJJ, you become part of the larger Jiu-Jitsu community. The structured approach to learning not only motivates you to attend classes but also brings the group together. You’ll feel a sense of belonging to something bigger." - Bill H., Mt. Desert, ME

    Come Grapple With Bill!
  • Man smiling in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu gi with a belt, standing in front of a black mat with the logo of Academia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    Best Place to Start Your Jiu-Jitsu Journey

    “The atmosphere here is perfect for anyone beginning their Jiu-Jitsu journey. The gym is always clean, the environment is safe for all levels, and the welcoming vibes make training enjoyable. The instructors genuinely care about your progress and are dedicated to helping you improve.” - Scott B., Orono, ME

    3-Class Trial - Adults

How To Get Started

Getting Started is Simple - No Contracts, No Pressure

Step 1

Sign Up for the 3-Class Trial

Reserve your spot online and choose your first class

Step 2

Show Up and Train

Come in 15 minutes early so you can meet the instructors and get fitted for a loaner uniform

Step 3

Use All 3 Trial Classes

Use all three classes to get comfortable, learn the basics, and experience the gym before deciding on membership.

Start Your 3-Class Trial- Kids and Adults

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Not at all — we welcome complete beginners. Just bring effort and a willingness to learn.

  • We provide a uniform for your trial classes. Please arrive wearing clean underwear and comfortable athletic clothing. No zippers, pockets, or jewelry.

  • Yes. Safety is our top priority.

    Classes are taught in a controlled, structured environment with an emphasis on technique, control, and awareness. Sparring is closely supervised, scaled to experience level, and never forced.

  • We offer kids classes starting at age 4, as well as classes for adults of all experience levels.

  • Yes. We offer a 3-class trial so you can try our classes before committing.

3-Class Trial - Kids and Adults