Steroid Use in BJJ 💉 and The Aoki Foot Lock Technique 🦶🔒

Welcome back to The BJJ Insider, your go-to source for candid discussions and game-changing techniques in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

I'm Daniel Negru, a dedicated BJJ practitioner, coach and your guide through the fascinating world of grappling. 

This week, we're diving into a controversial topic that's been making waves in the BJJ community: steroid use. Plus, we'll break down a sneaky yet devastating submission: the Aoki Lock. Let's roll!

The Steroid Dilemma in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Steroids in competitive BJJ have always been a contentious issue, but it seems the problem is more prevalent than ever. Some argue it's become almost a requirement for success at the highest levels.

Let's break down this complex topic:

The Competitor's Perspective

In my opinion, if you're a competing athlete, steroids should be off-limits unless both athletes have agreed to compete "enhanced." The integrity of the sport and fair play should always come first.

The Hobbyist's Choice

For hobbyists not chasing titles or fame, the decision is more personal. While I don't encourage it, what you do with your body is your choice when there's no competitive advantage at stake.

The Pros and Cons of "Juicing" in BJJ

Let's grapple with some of the claimed benefits and known negatives of steroid use in our sport:

Potential Benefits:

• Improved recovery from injury, allowing more mat time

• Enhanced strength for pins, limb control, and submissions

Serious Drawbacks:

• False sense of progress, neglecting technique for artificial gains

• Long-term health risks, including hormonal imbalances

• Mood swings, especially when cycling off

• Potential for lifelong health problems

Remember, steroids are not a shortcut to BJJ mastery. True growth comes from dedication, smart training, and consistent mat time.

Technique of the Week: The Aoki Lock 🦶🔒

Now, let's shift gears to a technique that's been shaking up the No-Gi scene: the Aoki Lock.

What is the Aoki Lock?

Named after Japanese MMA legend Shinya Aoki, this "sneaky" foot lock is as devastating as it is innovative. Here's the breakdown:

1. Target: Ankle and potentially the knee

2. Mechanics: Turn the foot outward, heel inward

3. Execution: Trap the heel between your arms and chest/ribcage

4. Finish: Apply rotational and linear pressure

Why It's Effective:

• Creates intense tension on ankle and knee ligaments

• Can affect just the ankle or both ankle and knee, depending on application

• Surprisingly quick submission, even against experienced opponents

Aoki Lock in Action:

For a jaw-dropping demonstration, check out ONE Championship Fight Night 15, where Mikey Musumeci tapped out the lock's creator, Shinya Aoki, with his own technique!

Training Tips:

• Practice the entry from various positions

• Focus on controlling your opponent's hip to prevent escape

• Drill the lock slowly to understand the precise mechanics and pressure points

Closing Thoughts: Integrity in Training and Competition

As we conclude this edition of The BJJ Insider, let's reflect on the importance of integrity in our BJJ journey.

Whether it's making ethical choices about performance enhancement or mastering techniques like the Aoki Lock, our growth in this sport should always be rooted in hard work, respect for our training partners, and a commitment to fair play.

Keep rolling, stay true to yourself, and never stop learning!

Ossss! 🥋

Daniel

The BJJ Insider Founder

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