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The Truth About PEDs in MMA and BJJ: Insights from Dr. Mike Israetel

The Truth About PEDs in MMA and BJJ: Insights from Dr. Mike Israetel

Performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) have long been a controversial topic in the world of combat sports, particularly in mixed martial arts and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. The high stakes of professional competition, combined with the physical demands of these sports, have led to persistent rumors and allegations of widespread PED use among athletes. In MMA, where fighters are constantly looking for an edge in strength, endurance, and recovery, the allure of PEDs can be strong. Similarly, in BJJ, where technique and conditioning are critical, the use of PEDs has also been a subject of concern, especially as the sport grows in popularity and visibility.

Despite stringent testing protocols and the threat of severe penalties, the debate over the prevalence of PED use in these sports continues. Some believe that the problem is rampant, with athletes willing to risk their health and careers to gain a competitive advantage. Others argue that the issue is overblown and that the majority of athletes compete cleanly, relying on rigorous training and natural talent. The truth likely lies somewhere in between, with varying degrees of use depending on the level of competition and the specific demands of each sport. This ongoing debate makes it all the more important to understand the realities of PED use in combat sports, as discussed in a recent interview with Dr. Mike Israetel, who offers a grounded perspective on the issue within the context of MMA.

In a recent interview with Luke Thomas, Dr. Mike Israetel of Renaissance Periodization discussed the prevalence of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) among professional mixed martial arts (MMA) fighters, shedding light on a topic that has long been the subject of speculation and debate.

When asked about the extent of PED use in professional MMA, Dr. Israetel provided a nuanced perspective, challenging the common belief that most fighters are using these substances. “It’s not as high as people think,” Israetel remarked. “A lot of people think everyone’s on drugs, but the reality of the matter is different.”

Dr. Israetel explained that, contrary to popular belief, many fighters are not as disciplined or committed to rigorous training and lifestyle habits that would support regular PED use. He described the challenges that coaches and trainers face in trying to get fighters to maintain a consistent routine, let alone commit to a drug regimen. “Getting them to do uncomfortable [stuff] is really hard. You’re lucky if they show up to practice for the love of God,” he said, highlighting the often haphazard nature of some fighters’ approaches to training.

He also emphasized that while PED use does occur, the decentralized and privatized nature of MMA training in countries like the United States contributes to a lower overall prevalence of drug use. “In MMA training in the United States, it’s all private, right? It’s all individuals and corporate entities, and so a lot of people just don’t do drugs for the same reason they don’t get enough protein per day or don’t sleep at night because they’re banging strippers or something—they’re just not sufficiently conscientious to do it,” Dr. Israetel explained.

This stands in contrast to more regimented state-sponsored training programs in countries like Russia, China, and Iran, where athletes might have little choice but to adhere to a strict PED regimen. “If you have a state-sanctioned training program in Russia, China, Iran, they don’t have a choice—like, you show up at 8 a.m., the doctor does this every Monday and Wednesday, and then you go and do your stuff,” he noted.

While Dr. Israetel acknowledged that some fighters do use PEDs, he was clear that it is not as pervasive as many might assume. “Are there people using? Yeah, hell yeah. Are there people not using? Absolutely,” he concluded.

Dr. Israetel’s insights offer a realistic view of PED use in MMA, suggesting that while it is present, it is not the norm across the sport. His comments also highlight the diverse range of training environments and attitudes toward PEDs, particularly in the context of MMA’s privatized and often loosely structured training culture in the United States.

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