JRE #546 – Mike Dolce

Joe Rogan Experience #546 – Mike Dolce Topics

This podcast dives into the world of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) with Mike Dolce, a renowned fitness trainer and the 2013 MMA Trainer of the Year. The discussion covers a range of topics, including the controversial practice of weight cutting, the influence of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), the importance of longevity protocols, and the impact of mental health in an athlete’s journey.

Provocative themes emerge throughout, exploring the ethical dilemmas surrounding PEDs, the potential dangers of extreme weight cutting, the cultural impact of MMA, and the significance of building a holistic approach to fitness and well-being.

Topics Discussed:

1. The Reality of Weight Cutting in MMA:

• Weight cutting is a common practice in MMA, with fighters often dehydrating themselves to make weight for their fight class.
• The process is often extreme, with fighters pushing their bodies to the limit and suffering significant health risks.
• Mike Dolce advocates for a more holistic approach to weight management, emphasizing a lifestyle change rather than a short-term fix.
• He believes that athletes should train and live like professional athletes year-round to minimize the impact of weight cutting.

2. The Influence of Performance-Enhancing Drugs (PEDs) on MMA:

• PEDs have dramatically altered the landscape of MMA, raising concerns about the ethics of competition and the potential health risks for athletes.
• Dolce believes that PEDs distort the notion of what is physically possible, creating an unfair advantage for those who use them.
• He argues that PEDs can increase aggression, tenacity, and even tolerance for pain, potentially leading to more severe injuries.
• While acknowledging the prevalence of PEDs, Dolce emphasizes the existence of many clean athletes who have achieved success through hard work and dedication.

3. Longevity Protocols for Athletes:

• Dolce advocates for a focus on longevity protocols, prioritizing long-term health and well-being over short-term performance gains.
• He emphasizes the importance of real food, fresh ingredients, and eliminating processed foods and supplements.
• Dolce believes that a focus on longevity protocols can actually enhance performance in the long run, leading to a more sustainable and fulfilling career.
• He emphasizes the importance of proper rest, recovery, and avoiding overtraining to minimize the risk of injury and maximize potential.

4. Mental Health and Performance in MMA:

• Dolce emphasizes the critical role of mental health in athletic performance, highlighting the importance of positivity, stress management, and surrounding oneself with positive influences.
• He believes that athletes who are able to manage their mental state and navigate challenges with resilience are better equipped to achieve success.
• He encourages athletes to work on their self-awareness, setting goals, and developing action steps to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential.
• Dolce advocates for building a “bubble of positivity” around athletes, especially during fight week, to help them stay focused and confident.

5. The Challenges of Coaching and Influencing Elite Athletes:

• Dolce discusses the complexities of coaching high-level athletes, acknowledging the importance of respecting the athlete’s autonomy and working within their limitations.
• He highlights the challenges of balancing scientific principles with the athlete’s individual needs and preferences.
• He shares his experience working with BJ Penn, emphasizing the importance of understanding the athlete’s personality and providing support without being overly directive.
• He believes that coaching is about more than just physical training; it’s about helping athletes achieve their goals and grow as individuals.

6. The Importance of Understanding the MMA Landscape:

• Dolce emphasizes the importance of understanding the nuances of MMA, including the different styles, training methods, and philosophies that exist.
• He acknowledges that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to training and coaching.
• He discusses the evolution of MMA, highlighting the increasing level of skill and athleticism among fighters.
• He believes that the future of MMA will continue to be shaped by innovation and adaptation, with new techniques and strategies emerging.

7. The Ethical Considerations of Medical Interventions and Performance Enhancement:

• Dolce delves into the ethical dilemmas surrounding medical interventions and performance enhancement, particularly in the context of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
• He acknowledges the potential benefits of TRT for athletes who are struggling with age-related hormonal decline, but also highlights the risks associated with its misuse.
• He discusses the difficulties of regulating TRT in combat sports, where the line between medical necessity and performance enhancement can be blurred.
• Dolce believes that the use of PEDs, including TRT, raises ethical concerns and creates an uneven playing field for athletes.

8. The Impact of PEDs on Athletes and the Sport:

• Dolce explores the impact of PEDs on athletes, highlighting the potential for both short-term and long-term health consequences.
• He discusses the case of Vitor Belfort, who was a dominant fighter while on TRT, but has seen his performance decline since being banned from its use.
• Dolce argues that PEDs can alter an athlete’s physiology, potentially leading to increased aggression, reduced recovery time, and even changes in their ability to withstand punishment.
• He believes that the use of PEDs can negatively impact the integrity of the sport and the perception of its athletes.

9. The Cultural Influence of MMA and the Evolution of the Sport:

• Dolce discusses the cultural influence of MMA, highlighting its growing popularity and its impact on the fitness industry.
• He notes the increasing interest in strength training, conditioning, and healthy eating habits among fans of the sport.
• Dolce believes that MMA is a sport that is constantly evolving, with new techniques, strategies, and athletes emerging.
• He argues that the evolution of MMA is driven by a combination of scientific advances, technological innovation, and the tireless pursuit of excellence by athletes.

10. The Importance of Proper Training and Conditioning for MMA Fighters:

• Dolce emphasizes the importance of proper training and conditioning for MMA fighters, advocating for a balanced approach that combines strength training, cardiovascular work, and sport-specific drills.
• He advocates for a periodized training program that progresses over time, ensuring that athletes are prepared for the demands of competition.
• Dolce believes that athletes should prioritize quality over quantity in their training, focusing on intensity and precision rather than simply logging hours in the gym.
• He argues that the goal of training should be to optimize performance while minimizing the risk of injury.

11. The Importance of Nutrition and Diet for MMA Fighters:

• Dolce stresses the importance of proper nutrition and diet for MMA fighters, advocating for a diet rich in real food, fresh ingredients, and a focus on nutrient density.
• He emphasizes the importance of individualized meal plans that take into account the athlete’s individual needs and metabolic profile.
• Dolce believes that proper nutrition can enhance performance, promote recovery, and minimize the negative effects of weight cutting.
• He advocates for a balanced approach to nutrition that avoids extremes and emphasizes consistency.

12. The Significance of Rest and Recovery for MMA Fighters:

• Dolce highlights the importance of rest and recovery for MMA fighters, emphasizing the need for adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and active recovery techniques.
• He believes that overtraining can lead to fatigue, injury, and reduced performance.
• Dolce advocates for incorporating recovery strategies into the training program, including massage, foam rolling, and stretching.
• He argues that proper rest and recovery are essential for optimizing performance and preventing burnout.

13. The Role of Mental Visualization in MMA Performance:

• Dolce discusses the role of mental visualization in MMA performance, highlighting its ability to enhance focus, confidence, and performance.
• He believes that athletes who are able to visualize their success are more likely to achieve it.
• Dolce encourages athletes to use visualization techniques to rehearse their strategies, overcome obstacles, and develop a winning mindset.
• He argues that mental visualization is an essential tool for athletes who want to compete at the highest level.

14. The Business of MMA and the Importance of Athletes Building their Brands:

• Dolce discusses the business of MMA, emphasizing the importance of athletes building their brands and creating multiple streams of income.
• He highlights the challenges faced by many MMA fighters, particularly those who are not at the top of the sport.
• Dolce encourages athletes to explore opportunities outside of fighting, such as coaching, fitness training, or business ventures.
• He believes that athletes who are proactive in building their brands are better positioned for long-term success.

15. The Importance of Finding Your Passion and Pursuing Your Dreams:

• Dolce emphasizes the importance of finding your passion and pursuing your dreams, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort and challenge themselves.
• He believes that success comes from a combination of hard work, dedication, and a willingness to take risks.
• Dolce advocates for living a life filled with purpose and meaning, finding joy in the journey rather than solely focusing on the destination.
• He encourages listeners to identify their values, set goals, and take action to achieve their full potential.

Memorable Quotes from the Podcast:

• “Weight cutting is something that unfortunately has to be done by a lot of athletes in order to minimize advantage as opposed to gaining an advantage.” – Dolce acknowledges the unfortunate reality of weight cutting in MMA.
• “The weight cut should start 52 weeks before competition, which means it should be a lifestyle.” – Dolce emphasizes a long-term approach to weight management.
• “Sometimes you just gotta dance with the girl you came with.” – Chris Leben’s quote reflects his wild and reckless nature, which has both helped and hindered him in his career.
• “It doesn’t just seem to affect your cardio, but it seems to also affect your ability to take a shot.” – Dolce highlights the potential impact of PEDs on an athlete’s durability.
• “You gotta be uncomfortable. I’m uncomfortable all the fucking time.” – Dolce embraces discomfort as a catalyst for growth and achievement.