Vagner Rocha is 41 years old, but he continues to train and compete at the highest level of professional grappling.
For instance, his latest appearance at a major tournament was at ADCC 2022 – where he won the bronze medal in the 88kg division.
And, according to him, Rocha has recently started using testosterone replacement therapy (TRT); in accordance to doctor’s suggestions.
Vagner Rocha’s recent interview on the Mayn Idea Podcast, in part discusses his use of Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) and its impact on his Jiu-Jitsu training and lifestyle.
TRT Prescription and Use: Vagner Rocha is candid about his use of TRT, mentioning it is doctor-prescribed and a low dosage that he maintains throughout the year.
Rocha says, “I am on TRT… it’s like a low dosage that I maintain throughout the year… I live through my doctor’s prescriptions.”
Perception in the Jiu-Jitsu Community: He addresses the common misconception in the Jiu-Jitsu community about TRT and steroids, suggesting that many professionals use some form of enhancement, especially in unregulated promotions.
He notes, “90% of the Jiu-Jitsu community doesn’t understand that most of everybody’s on something, especially on the professional level.”
Impact on Training and Lifestyle: Rocha emphasizes that for him, TRT is not just about competition but about maintaining good energy, clear mind, and the ability to train effectively.
He explains, “For me, it’s not even about being on it to be a competitor… I love having good energy, being able to wake up, feel good, train.”
Personal Discipline and Lifestyle Choices: He also talks about the importance of personal habits, like diet and sleep, in addition to TRT.
Rocha states, “Talk about the habits that you have… how do you sleep, what do you eat, how much vitamins… those are the things too.”
Advice to Older Athletes: Rocha advises older athletes to understand their bodies, much like they would care for a car, by getting regular check-ups and blood work.
He advises, “If your [testosterone] is in the low hundreds, it’s not good… you need to take care of your car so that you can have your car forever.”
Individualization and Medical Consultation: He stresses the importance of individualized medical consultation and regular blood work to make informed choices about TRT and supplements.
Rocha recommends, “Get your blood work done… make informed choices about what to do for yourself instead of finger pointing other people all the time.”
Dealing with Criticism and Misconceptions: Lastly, Rocha touches on the issue of online criticism and the misconceptions people have about TRT, emphasizing that these often stem from personal insecurities.
He reflects, “It’s insecurities that people have… those are their insecurities that they’re flagging out into the world.”
Rocha’s discussion provides a transparent insight into his use of TRT, its role in his training regime, and his perspective on the broader context of supplement use in sports, particularly in Jiu-Jitsu.
