In a candid and insightful discussion, Dr. Mike Piekarski, a renowned physical therapist, orthopedic clinical specialist, and a respected Jiu Jitsu black belt, delves into the pressing issue of steroid use in the realm of Jiu Jitsu. In the Mayn Idea Podcast, Piekarski provides a unique blend of professional expertise and personal experience, offering his views on how the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation (IBJJF) can address this growing concern.

The Core Issue: Professionalism in an Amateur Setting

Dr. Piekarski points out a fundamental contradiction in how Jiu Jitsu is governed. “If you want the steroid stuff to stop, you have to change the fact that it’s not a professional sport,” he argues. This observation underscores the disparity between the sport’s organization and its operation, particularly in terms of financial aspects and athlete support.

Financial Strain on Athletes

Highlighting the financial burdens shouldered by athletes, Piekarski notes, “You’re governing it like a professional sport but you’re treating it like an amateur Sport… you’re asking people to pay for their entry in it.” He emphasizes the need for a more supportive structure that recognizes and rewards the efforts of top athletes who often bear the weight of promoting the sport.

A Story of Neglect: The Case of Jacare

Piekarski shares a poignant example of the system’s failure to support its athletes, recalling the story of Jacare, a prominent Jiu Jitsu figure. “He was the best Jiu Jitsu athlete in the world… his arm was messed up, and IBJJF wouldn’t pay for anything.” This incident, where Jacare received no support after a severe injury, starkly illustrates the gaps in athlete care within the sport.

Dr. Mike Piekarski’s insights into the IBJJF’s steroid issue are more than just a critique; they are a call for meaningful change. By addressing the professionalization of the sport, financial support for athletes, and enhanced care for those who compete, Jiu Jitsu can evolve into a sport that not only challenges its practitioners physically but also supports them in every aspect of their athletic journey.