Welcome to Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
Located in Ellsworth, Maine, at 385 High Street (across from Pat's Pizza and next to Curtis Shoe Store), Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu has been proudly empowering individuals through the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2012. Our mission is to help you grow physically, mentally, and personally—whether you’re a beginner or an experienced practitioner.
Our Programs
At Acadia BJJ, we offer specialized programs tailored to different age groups and experience levels, ensuring everyone feels supported and challenged in a positive, inclusive environment.
Kids Classes
We offer age-specific kids classes for ages 4–7 and 7–12, with beginner groups as well as an advanced class for students who qualify. Our youth program focuses on building confidence, discipline, and physical coordination through fun, structured training.
Adult Classes (Ages 13+)
Our adult program is divided into three progressive class types to support your journey at every stage:
Fundamentals
Perfect for beginners, this class focuses on essential movements, concepts, and foundational techniques of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. There is no live sparring, but students engage in light positional training to reinforce key ideas. This is the ideal starting point for anyone new to BJJ.All Levels
This class introduces live sparring in a controlled, supportive environment. It builds on the fundamentals with a balance of technical instruction, drilling, and structured sparring. Suitable for all experience levels, especially those ready to take the next step after Fundamentals.Advanced
Designed for dedicated practitioners—typically blue belts and above—this class features a faster pace, advanced techniques, and extended sparring sessions. A strong understanding of the basics and a commitment to consistent training are expected.
Our Mission & Values
At Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, we prioritize camaraderie, discipline, fun, and continuous learning. Our community fosters an inclusive atmosphere where individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds can thrive. We believe Jiu-Jitsu is a journey of personal growth, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Community Focus
We take pride in creating a family-friendly, supportive environment. Our students train side-by-side with their peers, forming strong bonds and friendships. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or looking to enhance your self-defense skills, we provide a welcoming place for everyone to succeed at their own pace.
Meet Our Instructors
Kris Douglas – Head Instructor
Kris has been training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu since 2012 and earned his brown belt from Mike Pellegrino of MassBJJ/Arlington in October 2021. He became a certified Gracie Jiu-Jitsu instructor under Ryron and Rener Gracie in January 2023. Kris teaches all levels, including kids' classes, and is passionate about helping students gain confidence and develop real-world self-defense skills. Kris also competes often and has won gold medals in several IBJJF tournaments as well as several submission-only tournaments held in Maine.
Aaron Sprague – Advanced Instructor
Aaron began his Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu journey in September 2012 and earned his brown belt from Mike Pellegrino at MassBJJ/Arlington in October 2021. He specializes in teaching advanced sport Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu
What Sets Us Apart
While many schools focus on sport Jiu-Jitsu, we emphasize self-defense as the foundation of all our programs. Our students learn practical techniques that work in real-life situations, ensuring they’re well-prepared for anything life throws their way. Once a student has a solid foundation in self-defense jiu-jitsu, they move on to advanced more sportive jiu-jitsu, where the journey really begins!
Join Us!
Ready to experience the benefits of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu? We invite you to visit us to start your 10-day free trial. Whether you want to improve your fitness, gain confidence, or join a supportive community, Acadia Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is the place for you. Contact us today to get started—see you on the mats!