Victory Project®: Nurturing Champions for Paris 2024

Since July 1, 2022, Ajinomoto Co., Inc. has embarked on an ambitious new phase of the Victory Project_®: providing comprehensive nutritional support to athletes competing in the Breaking event, newly announced as an official part of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Originating in the U.S. during the 1970s, Breaking, or breakdancing, has deep roots in hip-hop culture and is characterized by its dynamic acrobatic moves and intricate footwork. At the Olympic Games Paris 2024, competitors will engage in electrifying solo battles, showcasing their agility through power moves like ‘windmills’ and ‘freezes,’ all while adapting their routines on the fly to the rhythms spun by DJs. Their goal? To captivate the judges and claim the first Olympic medals in Breaking history.

Beyond nutritional guidance, Ajinomoto Co., Inc.’s support for athletes leverages a robust network of coaching and training experts across physical and psychological domains, ensuring a holistic approach to athlete preparation that aligns with athletes’ aspirations and honors their pursuit of excellence.

We caught up with Shigekix, a 21-year-old (at the time of the interview) global Japanese Breaking sensation who has qualified for Paris 2024. Beginning his journey at just seven years old, Shigekix rapidly fell in love with the dance form, quickly developing a distinctive style that led him to prominence within the Breaking community. His victory at a major competition in Japan at the tender age of 11 marked his entry onto the world stage.

Shigekix emphasizes the critical role of nutrition in his preparation, especially how strategic meal planning across competition days makes a tangible difference. “Breaking is intensely dynamic, with each performance shaped by the live interaction with competitors,” he explains. “Staying in peak physical condition from the start allows for explosive displays of skill during the pivotal moments of the finals.”

He also highlights the importance of managing physical and psychological energy levels through well-timed activity and rest cycles, which are crucial for maintaining focus and resilience in such a high-stakes environment. He used to try to maintain maximum concentration all the time, but recently has realized it’s more natural to allow for some ebb and flow of energy that’s natural for human beings.

Shigekix’s regimen includes aminoVITAL^® to provide essential amino acids and HONDASHI^® for relaxation and recovery, supplemented by nutrient-rich snacks like rice balls seasoned with HONDASHI^® for sustained energy.

“As the Olympics approach, my excitement only grows. I’m eager to showcase the art of Breaking to a global audience and share the passion that drives me,” says Shigekix. With aspirations that stretch beyond just winning medals, he aims to redefine Breaking and inspire a new generation of dancers.

Ajinomoto Co., Inc. remains committed to supporting remarkable athletes like Shigekix, helping them to fully express their unique talents through the Victory Project_®. By continually advancing our science-based athlete support, we strive to empower athletes to achieve their dreams and showcase their extraordinary capabilities on the world stage.