"Is BMI everything?": We've talked with Otmane Kabietadiko aka "Oti Skillbeast" about it
In a digital world defined by visual representation, parameters such as the body mass index (BMI) are categories that not only (co-)evaluate our health. For many women, a high BMI triggers feelings of shame and insecurity. We talked to the Viennese fitness pro Otmane Kabietadiko aka "Oti Skillbeast" about it.
Although the BMI is a simple and proven method of measuring our health on a scale, it is now considered ineffective and even dangerous. We explain why.
New year, new luck! In your experience, how many people stick to their sports resolutions?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "First of all, I would distinguish whether someone does their training alone or in a group. In my experience, the adherence rate is higher when people train in a group or under the guidance of a trainer. A regular training plan and recording of individual progress also helps to ensure that resolutions are kept. In my practice as a coach, 90% of my clients who train in a group or under my guidance manage to keep their sports resolutions. And everyone is proud of themselves and also of the others within the community."
How do you actually stay motivated?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "One way to stay motivated is to be clear about why you want to keep fit and how it will help you achieve the goals you set for yourself. This is not only about your health, but also about how your fitness makes your everyday life easier. It can also be helpful to set small goals and reward yourself for them. Another option is to find an exercise partner or join a group activity to support and motivate each other. This usually works very well."
"It is important that people find a more diverse and authentic representation of bodies and beauty in the media."
Self-love is a central point of your fitness philosophy. Why is it especially difficult for women to be loving with their bodies?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "Social media can certainly have a negative impact on women's body image and self-esteem, especially in relation to the unrealistic and often manipulated images of beauty that are frequently shared. For example, the idea of 'heroin chic' as a desirable body image is not only harmful and dangerous, but also disrespectful to those who suffer or have suffered from addiction and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and families. It is important that people, both women and men, become aware of actively seeking to find a more diverse and authentic representation of bodies and beauty in the media. In addition, people should focus on their own self-care and well-being and not compare themselves to the unrealistic beauty standards that are often portrayed in the media.
How can sport strengthen one's self-image?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "Sport increases self-esteem. The success and progress in achieving one's goals, such as losing weight, building muscle or improving stamina, is key. The feeling of doing something for one's own health can also strengthen one's self-image. In addition, the social interaction in a sports group or the feeling of being part of a community can strengthen self-confidence and self-image.
"I want to achieve that every person recognizes their inner beauty, builds a positive relationship with their body, and thereby strengthens their well-being."
Why is the BMI (Body Mass Index) considered outdated?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "First of all, it is important to understand where the Body Mass Index (BMI) comes from historically. The BMI was introduced in the early 19th century by a Belgian mathematician and statistician named Adolphe Quetelet. It was adopted by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the 1980s and used as a screening tool for obesity and associated health risks. Apart from the fact that medicine and science have caught up, BMI is considered outdated mainly because it does not distinguish between muscle mass and fat mass. A person with a lot of muscle mass may be classified as overweight according to BMI, when in fact they are fit and healthy. A tape measure of abdominal circumference may be a better indicator for the risk of health problems from being overweight, as a larger abdominal circumference is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and diabetes. A scale with a scan can also measure body fat percentage, muscle mass, water percentage, bone mass and other body compositions in addition to BMI."
What alternative formula really helps to find out one's ideal weight?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "An alternative to BMI is to calculate body fat percentage. The body fat percentage indicates what percentage of the body weight is made up of fat. A healthy body fat percentage for adults is between 20-25% for men and 25-30% for women. There are different methods to measure body fat percentage, such as Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), body scanners or Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA). Another alternative is to calculate the WHtR (Waist-to-Height Ratio), which is the ratio of waist to height. A healthy value is below 0.9 for men and 0.85 for women.However, it is important to note that none of these formulas are perfect and should always be considered in conjunction with other factors such as age, gender, activity level, diet, etc. Medical consultation is always advisable to determine the ideal weight."
If you were to give us one timeless fitness tip, what would it be?
Otmane Kabietadiko: "A timeless fitness tip is to focus on a regular routine and keep track of your progress. Above all, it's important to set goals and continually pursue them, rather than just focusing on the outside. Mental health should also be considered by accepting oneself and being proud of one's achievements. Only those who have a positive relationship with themselves, love and accept themselves - mentally, spiritually and physically - can realise their full potential and lead an all-round happy and fulfilled life."