Interview With Fitness Model Obi Obadike Interviewed by Ben Tatar - January 2009
"Most Ripped Male Fitness Model In The World"
This is Ben Tatar from Critical Bench and I had the chance to interview the fastest sprinter and the most ripped fitness model that I have ever seen, Obi Obadike. Obi is a man who is respected and highly valued not just by the mainstream but by many of the top athletes and experts in the fitness industry. Let's hear what the twenty two fitness athletes and experts had to say about Obi before we interview this man.
1) Max Wettstein: fitness cover model, host, author, and abs-expert, www.maxwettstein.com says:
Obi Obadike, ('Obi-1' I call him), has all the essentials expected of any successful fitness model. He has the genetics, the physique, confidence, charisma, he is incredibly hard working and persistent and a marketing guru. Obi is able to channel all of his talents appropriately and conducts himself with the utmost professionalism. I have competed in one fitness show and been on a talk show with Obi, and I consider him not only a respected colleague but also a friend. His talent, hard work, and determination have earned him ground breaking success as an African-American. Obi is still a young man and has not even come close to reaching his potential yet!"
2) Senior Art Director of Muscle& Fitness and Muscle& Fitness HERS says-
"A lot of times we need fitness models to play many roles, from instructional model to sports athlete. Obi fits easily to any of those roles. And I never worry about Obi not being in shape." Michael Touna
3) The great photographer Ralph Deehan says:
"I have worked with Obi several times over the past year and he is one of the top new fitness models to come along. Our first shoot we got a cover on Max muscle as well as publication in multiple other magazines. He is professional, showing up on time, prepared and ready to work. Often he has suggestions to contribute to the shoot which always is a help to the photographer, then it become more of a collaboration instead of just directing a model, always coming up with a better overall shoot.
Look for him to become one of the best very soon, and his abs are ALWAYS chiseled !!! He's always in shape."
4) One of the most inspiring Fitness Cover Fitness Models ever, Micah Lacerte says:
"Obi is one of the most dedicated and hard working guys I know. He practices what he preaches and it shows. One of the most ripped guys I have ever seen. Not only is his physique in top notch shape hes also a great guy on the inside and someone I call a true friend.."
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5) Greg Mantell the Host of the Greg Mantell Show says-
"I've interviewed obi twice on the show. He has run the range from serious and thought-provoking to wild and crazy-- But always fun and informative. Looking forward to having him back. An intelligent, articulate guest. --Greg Mantell, Host of the Greg Mantell Show
6) Robert Reiff from www.magiclight.com says-
"Obi is a top notch fitness model that always brings his best game and attitude to the shoot, not to mention the dialed in physique of course. He's great to work with on all levels and a true professional"
7) Editor-in Chief of Maximum Fitness Michael DeMedeiros says:
"Obi Obadike is by far one of the standout fitness athletes in the world today. His physique speaks to the new approach to health and fitness that the average man can aspire to attain, but also to the athlete or competitor that wants to look his absolute best.
As Editor-in-Chief of Maximum Fitness, I've had the chance to work with Obi on set several times and can confirm him as one of the most respectful, prepared and hard working models I've met. Always in impeccable shape, always willing to give his all for the magazine and always ripped, Obi also has one of the very best six-packs in the industry."
8) Siotha Vest, Dymatize Nutrition Marketing Director says-
"Obi was a phenomenal model! His body was in top performance shape and he
was extremely professional in front of the camera. We look forward to next year's photoshoot!"
9) Jason Stern, "Radio Host of Big Nation Radio says,
"Obi was one of my top guests in 2008 and was one of the more intelligent and articulate guests I've had in some time. His physique speaks for itself and I have to say one of the most ripped fitness models I've seen in some time. I would say arguably the best abs in the business. He has continued to break barriers in the fitness industry and I look forward to more success from him"
10) Jackie Megaw- Chief Photographer for Inside Fitness Magazine says-
"Obi is one of the most disciplined fitness models I have met. His conditioning always creams the competition, and I can't believe I have had the opportunity to work with this guy on numerous occasions! We always have fun working together because he's just an all around cool guy. He's a go getter!! "
11) Terry Frendo- Publisher of Inside Fitness Magazine says-
"Ever the consummate professional, Obi Obadike is clearly a part of an elite group of fitness athletes. His hard working approach and sheer determination are just a couple of personality traits that have helped elevate him into this class. Those traits, along with Obi's outstanding, always-ripped physique, stellar six-pack and positive disposition will undoubtedly cement his place in this small, yet prestigious group of top fitness athletes for years to come."
12) Cover Model Matus Valent says-
"Obi Obadike, my good friend and amazing fitness model belongs to the top competition in this field. His amazingly lean physique and year-round top shape with chiseled abs puts him ahead of his competition. His proportional body and great personality helps him to book serious campaigns. The recent magazine covers with OBI just proves that he really owerwrote the history of african-american models in fitness modeling and that he is certainly no.1 among them. I wish you the most success in the 2009."
13) Paul Dillett - Former IFBB Great Bodybuilder and President of the WBFF says-
"Obi Obadike is the hardest working man in the fitness industry. He is one of the most ripped fitness models out there today and has one of the best abs in the business. His physique and his work ethic will take him all the way to the top. I look forward to seeing much success from the one of the newest and top fitness models in the business"
14) Cover Model Francisa Dennis says-
"Two things are necessary for great success in anything in life: Passion and Determination.
I see both of these virtues overflowing in Obi. Because of this, his incredibly shredded physique and easy smile, it's only a matter of time before he will be a very well known figure in this industry."
15) The Legendary Fitness Atlantic Fitness Model Morris Mendez says-
"What more can I say which has not been said before about Obi.I'm starting to see this guy in almost every magazine I open. Lol. I mean, the mans very articulate, marketable, has good looks,ripped and always on point ready for a photo shoot. Also got to add that he has one of the best set of abs I've seen.That's if you exclude Ulisses Jr Lol Most important besides the physique, Obi is an ambassador in fitness modeling and an inspiration to fitness models of color. Obi's always willing to make time to answer questions to help his fellow men strive to meet their fitness goals. Keep doing what your doing bro you inspire people and people like myself.
With a few more covers, features and ads. I'm sure Obi will be a face and a household name amongst the best male fitness models. By the way, Mike O' Hearn there's a new sheriff in town. And his name is "OBI 1. U know ME!!"
16) Former IFBB Pro Bodybuilder and CEO of My Fit Tribe, Jamo Nezzar says:
"Obi Obadike ... what can I say , I have met Obi two years now and I have to say the guy not only has one of the best physiques around , but also he is the most dedicated fitness model around . I'm so honored to have him gracing the pages of myfittribe.com , showing all of our 10000 plus members who live a healthy life and say in great shape . So thank yo OBi for being part of the MFT family "
17) Fitness Photographer Brian Lamb says-
"Obi's commitment to excellence is apparent. He arrives at every shoot in perfect condition and always brings the apparel, attitude, and enthusiasm required for supernaturally good photos."
18) Andre DeLoach of Empyrean photography says-
"What impresses me about Obi is his sheer dedication. And his dedication goes beyond sculpting an incredible physique (which he has obviously done). Obi has demonstrated a true commitment to becoming the most effective and versatile fitness model in the industry."
19) Fitness legend Clark Bartram says-
"In all my years of helping people achieve success in the fitness industry, Obi is one of the rare few who actually does what I've asked him to do. He is proactive, confident, persistent, and willing to go the extra mile. Many people say they want to be a top fitness model, Obi backs it up with action. His physique speaks for itself, so it doesn't really matter if I think he has some of the best abs in the business, the rest of the fitness community will have to make up their own minds when the begin to see him all over the place.
Watch out because Obi Obadike is on the starting line and ready for the gun to sound!"
20) Cover Fitness Model Greg Plitt -
"Obi is one of the hardest workers I know in the fitness industry. New to the field, but given his dedication, work ethic, drive, and always in shape; he will move very quickly to the top of the field. He is a motivation to many and I look forward to watching all his success unfold in the near future."
Greg Plitt- The #1 Fitness Model in the World
21) Cover Model Andy Ashton says-
"I have competed against the World's fittest fitness models. Few have both the look and talent that Obi possesses. Obi is an intelligent man with aptitude and a noble character who will be a positive role model for individuals seeking their dream physique and to live a life of quality health & vitality'. Obi is a sincere person who I believe has the potential to succeed as one of the best Fitness Models in the industry."
22) LaRue Novick, Editor in Chief, Max Sports & Fitness Magazine says-
"Obi is one of the most enthusiastic fitness models I've ever worked with. His energy and drive are intoxicating. And, his physique rivals most, especially those abs!"
BEN TATAR: Wow! Obi, you have captured the hearts and minds of a lot of experts and ripped models in the fitness industry! I have followed you this past year and without a doubt you arguably had one of the best 1st year's ever for a fitness model. What magazines were you in 2008? I mean I've seen you literally in almost every bodybuilding and fitness magazine.
Obi: First of all I feel very blessed and it wasn't for God none of this would have happened. Almost everything I've wanted to do in the fitness industry I feel like I've done. I would say the Max Sports and Fitness (Sept issue cover), Inside Fitness ( current winter issue cover), Fitness Rx For Men, Men's Journal, Muscular Development, MuscleMag, Flex, Muscle and Fitness, Muscle and Body, Exercise and Health and Maximum Fitness. These are just the magazines that I know of. Most of the bodybuilding and fitness magazines I mentioned was because of my two international supplement ads that are out right now. The exposure I've gotten from these ads have been absolutely incredible for me. I feel like I am in a dream and I don't want to wake up.
BEN TATAR: The question you probably get being a former top Division collegiate sprinter is how fast could you run the 40 yard dash? What is your fastest 40 yard dash time and what can you run now being away from competitive sprinting after so many years? Do you think you can beat NFL Wide Receiver Terrell Owens in a 40 yard dash?
Obi: If I had a dollar for every time someone asked me that I would be a millionaire..LOL. My fastest 40 yard time ever was a 4.28 and I believe even now that I can clock a 40 yard dash without being in track shape at a mid 4.4 to high 4.4. I can still run very fast even now. It is hard to lose that fast twitch when you've doing something since you were 5 years old. T.O is an amazing athlete and I used to work out with him when I lived in Atlanta for a bit in 2001. He used to work out at the Crunch Gym. If I got into track shape which would take about two to 3 months for me and if we ran the 40 yard dash one on one, I don't believe he could beat me in a race and that is the honest truth. A track athlete generally is always faster than a football player because we can maintain our speed much longer than most athletes. I think it would be a good race though but I pick me winning that one...smile.
BEN TATAR: Obi being faster than Terrell and certainly being the fastest most ripped model athlete in the world, if you could race 3 pro athletes on national TV who would you pick in a 40 yard dash and why?
Obi: The three athletes I would love to run against in a 40 yard dash would be Deion Sanders, Bo Jackson and Willie Gault. These were three of the fastest NFL players ever and also one of the greatest athletes to ever play in the NFL. Deion's best 40 was a 4.2; Bo ran a 4.18 in pads and Willie gault has reportedly ran an unofficial 3.9. I think it would have been pretty cool to sprint against these guys at my peak and their peak. Willie gault would win that race. He is only guy to ever beat Bo Jackson in a foot race while playing in the NFL.
BEN TATAR: Obi you've competed against some of the best athletes in the world. Tell us some of the professional athletes you competed against as a sprinter?
Obi: I have been very fortunate to have competed against some of the best athletes in the world. Some of the athletes that I think some of the mainstream public would be familiar with is Maurice Greene, former 100 meter World record holder and 2000 Olympic 100 meter gold medalist; Ato Boldon, 2000 Olympic 100 meter silver medalist and former World Champion; Randy Moss, NFL Great Receiver, Lawrence Phillips former Rams Running back. Those are just a few that comes to head. All these guys I mentioned are genetic and athletic freaks. It was pretty cool to step on the track with these great athletes.
BEN TATAR: Obi what is your highest vertical jump? Can you jump higher than Michael Jordan and out run him?
Obi: My best recorded vertical leap is about 42 inches but I don't think that is enough to be able jump higher than Michael Jordan. I don't think there are many people on this planet that could jump higher than MJ at his best. MJ was a pretty fast basketball player but I don't believe at my best and his best he could be in a sprint race. As I said before a track guy is generally always faster than a football or basketball player. I think it would be a good race. MJ is still one of the greatest athletes ever. He will always be known as a athletic phenomenon.
BEN TATAR: Speaking of Michael Jordan and Gatorade, you were on the same commercial as him. I read somewhere that you used to do fashion shows for Nike overeseas back in the mid 90's. And you were also featured in one of the greatest gatorade commercials ever not long ago. Please tell us about that.
Obi: I've been a sports model for over 10 years and I've bee blessed to have done over 8 national sports commercials and over 15 sports print ad campaigns. I was Nike's perennial sports model back in the mid 90 to late 90's, where they would fly me overseas for their fashion shows for their upcoming spring and summer sporting wear. It was fun because I got the ability to travel to places like Singapore, Paris, Australia, Hawaii, etc. It is an incredible treat to travel on someone's else's dime on a job. I was so young back then and didn't realize how lucky I was being able to travel overseas on a paid job.
In regards to the Gatorade commercial it is by far the biggest commercial I've ever been a part of from an exposure and financial standpoint. The audition for the commercial was a serious competitive cattle call. It was a 2 day audition with over 300 fitness model and athletes vying for one male and one female spot. The audition featured some of the most ripped fitness model and athletes from California. I felt very lucky to beat out over 300 quality fitness models and athletes for the commercial. The commercial is still considered one of the greatest gatorade commercials ever and to be a part of that is surreal. I believe it aired extensively all over the world from 2005 to 2007
Gatorade Commercial With Obi
BEN TATAR: Obi, you were considered one of the best sprinters ever at Cal State Fullerton in the 100 and 200 in the history of that school! Tell us a little bit about your sprinting life there!
Obi: My sprinting life was interesting and in a way sad because I was one of those athletes that blossomed late and never really hit his potential. I had a lot of injuries and setbacks during my career at Cal State Fullerton that prevented me from reaching my potential. I entered the school as a Prop 48 so I had to sit out my first year because of low SAT scores and the NCAA took 1 year of my eligibility which today still makes me upset. I had a lot to overcome while I was competing: I had hamstring injuries more than half of my collegiate career; my sprint coach passed away my 2nd year and the coach that replaced him was fired during my last year at the school.
I was one of those athletes that unfortunately never hit his potential and that is something that will always bother me till the day I die. I was only 21 years old when I was done with my college eligibility because I started college at only 17 years old.
I really feel that I have been given 4 years of NCAA eligibility and my coach was still alive and minus the injuries I would have been one of the fastest guys in the world. Despite the injuries, passing of a coach, firing of a new coach and only 3 years of eligibility I am still considered one of the greatest sprinters to ever run at the school. I feel pretty proud of that accomplishment.
BEN TATAR: What was it like being athlete of the year? What exactly did you get athlete of the year for?
Obi: I earned athlete of the year at Cal State Fullerton for being the best sprinter and best athlete on my track team. That year I broke three school records which was my own record in the 100 meters, 200 meters and 4 by 100 relay. That year was the only year that I was 100 percent healthy with no injuries and I had the best year of collegiate career which was in 1996.
BEN TATAR: You were also the two time All Big West Conference at the school! Tell us about that!
Obi: I was a two time all Big West conference by placing top five in the conference in the only two years I competed at the Big West Conference Championships. My last year I couldn't compete because of a hamstring injury. My second year when I competed I should have won the Big West Conference Championships because I was a strong favorite. I had the 2nd fastest 100 time in the preliminary heat and I beat the former Big West Champion in my preliminary race who was a former NFL player named Mike Harvey. In the Final of the 100 meters, I had a horrible start and I ended finishing 4th in the conference. If I had just an average start in that race I would have been the Big West Conference sprint Champion.
BEN TATAR: Obi, do you sprint year round?
Obi: I don't sprint competitively anymore but I do sprint about 1 to two times a week fo cardio purposes. Sprinting is one of the most explosive leg exercises you can ever do. It builds your legs, abs, glutes, hamstrings, quads. It truly is a total body workout and I would advise many people to try it. You will benefit tremendously from this exercise.
BEN TATAR: Being a sprinter, what do you think of Usain Bolt's performance in the 100 and 200 meter dash setting those records! If he didn't celebrate early on what do you think his time would have been?
Obi: His performance was the greatest sprint performance I've ever seen since Ben Johnson. They did a study on this recently and said he would have ran 9.52 to 9.60. which is really unreal and it is very hard for me to comprehend that anybody could run that.
BEN TATAR: Why should everyone sprint and how important do you feel sprinting is when it comes to building that ultimate physique?
Obi: Sprinting is one of the most explosive leg workouts you can do. It works the butt, calves, hamstrings, quads and stomach. It is almost a full-body workout. If you want to build a lean muscle more importantly in your legs then sprinting should be able to do it. You will receive the same residual effect that you would feel when doing squats. When you're done with a sprinting workout both of your legs are pumped. Sprinting is so popular that many celebrities have implemented it in their workout as well as fitness and figure competitors.
BEN TATAR: That was fun discussing your life as a sprinter! It's cool that you can out run the wide receivers in a sprint and that you have always done so well at sprinting. Moving on now, what differentiates you from other fitness models in the industry? As you do stand out even next to other greats!
Obi: First I would say my work ethic. I work so hard at being one of the best in this industry. I take fitness modeling very very seriously. I feel that I am one of the most prepared fitness models you'll ever meet when it comes to photo shoots. I bring my
A game at all times and I think most photographers who I've worked with have taken notice to that. The second thing I think what separates me from most fitness models is being at 4 percent bodyfat all year round. You can probably count on one finger or two on a fitness model that can maintain that bodyfat percentage all year round. It is incredibly rare for a fitness model honestly to be that lean throughout the year. Being ripped up at all times came in handy for me for just recently for a Muscle and Fitness shoot I did right around mid Dec of 2008. I was contacted last minute a day before the shoot to replace cover model Morris Mendez due to him having flight issues. I really felt that I impressed the staff of Muscle and Fitness due to the conditioning I brought to the shoot with only a 24 hour notice. I believe that is a strength of mine that will allow me to work more than others.
BEN TATAR: Obi, what is your feeling about steroids and drugs? I am sure you get this question all the time. Have you ever taken steroids or drugs or have you been tempted to take drugs to build your incredibly ripped physique?
Obi: That is a great question! I was tempted to take steroids in college as a sprinter because of so many athletes I competed against that were on it. I got tired of competing against guys that were taking steroids that I knew that was faster and more talented. It is hard to compete against a guy that is willing to go through those measures to win. Unfortunately track and field has been such a dirty sport for such a long time that it is hard to believe that you are competing against any clean athlete back then and now. I am very glad that I didn't succumb to the pressure of taking steroids. Because the pressure was there when I was competing and I wouldn't be human if I didn't say it didn't cross my mind. I feel very proud about saying that I've never taken steroids or any drugs ever in my life.
BEN TATAR: Obi you are breaking barriers and showing that the fitness industry is for anyone and that anyone in the world can be successful! Obi, your abs are beyond our time. I am trying to count them and you are so ripped that they are impossible to count! haha.. Give me 5 tips about how you got the most ripped abs of any model I have ever seen?
Obi: You are incredibly funny! I am always flattered about anybody giving me compliments about my abs. It seems my abs has really given me great opportunities in the fitness industry. It seems to be what I am known for in this industry these days. I've written many articles about this in regards to having great abs. Abs is not indicative of how many sit-ups or crunches you do, it is indicative of how low your body-fat is to see those abs. The five tips in getting great abs I would say is great nutrition, a rigorous cardio regimen, consistency, proper sleep and variation in your workout routine. If you follow these five tips I think you should maximize your potential in the type of abs you can have. The reality is you can't change the shape of your abs. The shape of your abs is really hereditary but you can enhance and make them more detailed and that is by great cardio and a consistent diet.
BEN TATAR: Yes, excellent and powerful advice. Obi, what makes you impressive is that you're not just the most ripped model in the world and a great sprinter, but you can also bench press 400+ pounds and bench 225lbs for as many reps as an NFL lineman. This is amazing because you have the fast twitch fibers to dominate in sprinting but you have the slow twitch fibers to bench 225lbs for over 30 reps.. Just how many times can you bench press 225lbs and give us some pointers on how to increase ones bench press!
Obi: I've bench-pressed 225lbs 32 times and I would say the key to increasing your bench press is really a simple formula. The formula is constantly challenging yourself with heavy weight when you are benching. I would say bench-pressing to close to 90 percent of your max weight every time you bench press. Your routine should always be in a pyramid type of style so you don't hurt yourself. The more you work with heavier weight the more your body adapts to the weight and then your strength increases.
BEN TATAR: Great bench press tips! You didn't beat around the bush and gave powerful bench tips in a nutshell. Obi you were the first african american model ever on a fitness cover for Inside Fitness Magazine. How does it feel to be looked at as pioneer in this way?
Obi: I am very honored to be looked at as a leader or a pioneer but I still have a lot to do and I don't know if I am quite there yet but I am flattered for anybody to say that about me. First of all I am very proud of being the first African-American fitness for Inside Fitness magazine. Inside Fitness Magazine is the #1 fitness magazine in Canada.
I am very thankful to Terry Frendo, publisher of Inside Fitness for giving me the opportunity to being on the cover of his magazine. When I came into this industry during the early part of 2008 I said that I wanted to be the Jackie Robinson of Fitness modeling. One of my goals is to be the most published black male fitness model ever and to be remembered as the model that paved the way and opened doors for other black male fitness models. With that success I want to use that to help other minorities that have aspirations of being on a cover of a fitness magazine. My approach to fitness has always been from an altruistic perspective.
Any success I have in this industry I will always use it to help others. If I can't do that then that success means absolutely nothing. The best remedy to create more diversity is really to give more fitness cover opportunities to more minorities. Once that happens then you will see more of those same minorities buying more fitness magazines which will aid more diversity in the subscribers as well as in the fitness industry. It's kind of a trickle down effect. Most of society doesn't really care whether you have a black or an Asian on the cover of a magazine they just want to be inspired to be fit and healthy.
BEN TATAR: Obi, you inspire more and more people every day.. What do you like so much about helping others in such a selfish sport in general in the eyes of many people?
Obi: I am still very new in this industry and it is great to have the ability to inspire people I definitely wouldn't call myself the mother Theresa of this industry, LOL!. I love helping people and that is why I came in this fitness industry. My passion has always been to affect as many people as I can in a positive way. I want to help reduce the obesity rate in this country by my fitness writing, video exercise blogs and fitness teachings.
I am a freelance writer for Clarkbartram.com and I really love the way I have been able to reach out to so many people by my articles and video blogs. I contribute articles and video blogs for free and I love it man. It is kind of like giving back to society and it is something that has reinforced why I entered the fitness industry. I feel that it is my calling in life is to help inspire people to be as healthy as they can be. When someone tells you that you inspire them just by you enjoy doing what you love to do which is staying in shape. WOW! You can't put a price tag on something like that. I love to put smiles on people's faces and help inspire to make them the best person they can be. I'll never lose that quality about me because that is just who I am.
BEN TATAR: Keep in mind people, Obi has made all these accomplishments in his career and if he can do all of this in world record period of time, imagine what he will do next? So, Obi I was wondering where people can contact you so they can keep up with your achievements down the road?
BEN TATAR: Obi, you have met many powerful people in this industry. What have been the best reactions to your physique?
Obi: I guess the best reaction is actress Sheryl Lee Ralph's reaction at the 2008 Emmy Gifting Suites. I was doing promotional work at the Emmy Gifting suites and I left my fitness zed card on the table where I was stationed. The front of the card has my most ripped physique abs picture with the bar and her reaction after seeing that was so funny. In fact there is you tube video of her reaction. She was so enamored by my physique she called me "walking chocolate". I still laugh every time when I watch the video but it was funny and flattering seeing someone like her who has worked with plenty of fit and good looking actors lose her composure just because she saw my picture. I was very flattered by her reaction honestly.
BEN TATAR: Outside of the red carpet experience, what were some of the craziest reactions that you have ever gotten towards your physique?
Obi: Laughing out Loud! Most people think my ab shots are air-brushed. I hear a lot of people say that there is no way those abs are real or I am taking steroids. I have had people tell me that I inject steroids in my abs to get them thicker and bigger. It's funny what you hear but flaterring that someone can think your abs look so good that they aren't real or you are doing something to illegal to make them look a certain way
BEN TATAR: Priceless! Obi, you graduated from college and have a Masters degree in communications! College was very easy for you as you got your B.A. at 21! What was it about communications that you liked so much? You also told me you have a B.S. too. Tell us about it.
Obi: I actually have a B.A in communications, B.S. in computer networking in which I graduated with honors and I am 3 weeks from completing my Masters in Information Systems in which I will graduate with honors. Education is something that is very important to me and I wouldn't be anything without my education. I love communications my man because in everything you do you are communicating with people. I took many public speaking classes and I feel from that training that it has helped me to be able to influence people in a positive way by educating people on health and fitness.
BEN TATAR: Obi when you are sprinting a college record in the 200 meter dash or doing 40 pullups with perfect form (which is insane,) how does your mindset change?
Obi: Well for the record I've never done 40 pull-ups I've done 37 pull-ups…smile. Sprinting is an incredible adrenalin rush especially when you hit top speed. That feeling is incredible to be able to hit your top speed. There is no rush out of doing pull-ups in fact I would say it is an exercise that most don't like to do and struggle with. There is an incredible dichotomy between the two. When in your top shape sprinting a 200 meters is rather easy. When you look at a 200 meter race you sometimes ask yourself how can a guy sprint that long and keep top speed for such a long time. The type of training it takes to be able to sprint a 200 meters at a very fast speed isn't easy.
BEN TATAR: ok Obi, I am going to say that you are the most ripped fitness model in the planet. What is your favorite thing about being the world's most ripped fitness model?
Obi: I really don't see myself as the world's most ripped fitness model and I am flattered and honored to be selected as that. I think that honor and selection is a credit to how conditioned and lean I come in for my photo-shoots and fitness competitions. The funny thing is since being selected as the most ripped fitness model on the planet I've had many of my facebook and my space friends saying that they believe I am. I think that is pretty cool especially since it is so subjective.
BEN TATAR: Obi, who are your mentors in this industry?
Obi: My three mentors in this industry are Clark Bartram, Greg Plitt and Paul Dillett. Clark Bartram is arguably the greatest male fitness model ever with over 130 fitness covers and the host of two fitness shows. He has been a great influence in my career as a fitness model. He has been very responsible for much of my success in the fitness industry. The advice he has given me and his network of contacts he has shared with me has been absolutely incredible. Clark was responsible for my first cover with Max Sports and Fitness so I will always be grateful to him for that. I think I can modestly say that I am his greatest student.
Greg Plitt is the #1 fitness model in the world and is a very close friend of mine. His success has inspired me to be the best. He has given me lots of advice about this industry that has been very helpful to me. The man has done over 75 covers in 3 years which is more than anybody in the world. I am kind of like a sponge when I am around him. Paul Dillett is one of the greatest bodybuilders ever and the President of the WBFF. His organization is really revolutionizing the fitness industry. He has helped me tremendously and was influential in my second cover for Inside Fitness. The mentorship and guidance he has given me has been immeasurable.
BEN TATAR: Obi, you broke many Color barriers in the fitness industry. What were those barriers?
Obi: Well in 2008 I became the first African-American male fitness model to land an international supplement ad for Dymatize Nutrition in September; I was part of the first African-American male and female fitness couple to be on a cover of a U.S. magazine for Max Sports and Fitness in September and I was part of history by being the first black male and female on a Canadian fitness cover with Inside Fitness for the Winter edition with Francisca Dennis.
I was very proud about those accolades. I do know it is rare for any new fitness model to land a cover their very first year in the business. Modestly speaking I do believe that if you do compare my first 7 months and take one of the great fitness cover model legends first 7 months that it is probably comparable. I have a long way to go to even be called a legend or even start comparing myself to the great legends. I believe that I have made a great start so far. Only time will tell.
The Greg Mantell Show
Obi talks about a lack of diversity on fitness covers
CRITICAL BENCH: Obi, I wanted to ask you I read an announcement on facebook that your going to be the face, name and physique of a new sports nutrition company in the UK. Please tell us about that incredible opportunity that sounds kind of exciting.
I am pretty excited about the opportunity I competed in their 2009 online Performance best physique competiton and I ended up winning the competition. I believe there were over 60 competitors that competed in this online competition. Well anyway the winner of this competition was awarded a 1 year promotional contract in the UK for a new sports nutrition company. I was informed by the director that they would make me the face, physique and name of their new products they have coming out. I am pretty excited about it because it allows me to make a solidifed name for myself in the mainstream of the UK. I can't talk too much about this company or their products as it is new and they plan to make a big splash in the UK with what they have coming out very soon.
This new company is expecting to be a huge success in the UK. To be a fitness model and to be awarded this opportunity is incredibly humbling. I was informed that they will feature ads of me of their products in Men's Health, (UK), Muscle and Fitness, (UK) and Flex, (UK). I always felt in my heart that I had the type of physique to help sell products and now I have my chance as the face and physique of this new company. The whole experience and opportunity is incredibly exciting.
BEN TATAR: Away from the fitness industry, what is hardest thing for you to accept in life?
Obi: That my little brother mentally is gone and will probably never come back to me. My brother who is 2 years and 10 months my junior had a mental breakdown about a year ago and he has lost his identity. He doesn't know who he is and he doesn't know who I am or his family. He stays at a mental faciility and I am his conservator who makes all the medical and financial decisions on his behalf. It is still very hard for me to deal with personally. It is the biggest tragedy in my personal life. I would give anything to bring him back. That is a tough one to deal with brother.
BEN TATAR: Tell us about your brother and what it is like helping him?.
Obi: It has been hard to deal with that personally on top of trying to juggle fitness modeling career, my 50 plus an hour full-time job as well as grad school. I am the conservator for my brother which means I make all financial and medical decisions in regards to him. It is a huge responsibility for me and sometimes can be emotionally draining
BEN TATAR: Obi, you are a true hero. As you help those who need it most as well. How has your mothers support been towards you?
Obi: My mother is my hero and role model. She has sacrificed so much for me and my two younger brothers. I don't think I can ever repay the unconditional love she has given me my whole life and still does. I would take a bullet for her any day. If I could be anything close to the type of person she is then I know I've accomplished a lot in my life. I love you MOM!
BEN TATAR: You're also a freelance fitness writer. Who do you write for?
Obi: I write for Inside Fitness magazine and I also write for Clarkbartram.com. Clarkbartram.com is a new fitness site that is really growing right now. The main objective of the site is to enrich people lives in a positive way and to promote health and fitness. We try to show you different way to be fit and healthy. I love contributing to the site because it allows me to reach so many people. If you are someone that wants to attain great fitness knowledge, nutrition, exercising, motivation I would advice you to log on to clarkbartram.com you won't be disappointed from what you hear there.
BEN TATAR: What's the link to download your wallpaper?
Obi: You can find the wallpaper at this link...http://bodybuilding.com/fun/desktop_wallpapers_pros.htm
and scroll down to week 117. It is the best physique shot I've ever taken.
BEN TATAR: A couple other Web sites have named you most ripped model in the World. You also competed for the WBFF world title so what happened there? What is it like competing for you and what goes on through your mind before competing?
Obi: It is flattering to hear those words although I don't see myself as one of the most ripped guys in the world. I am so humbled by any compliment or kind word from anybody. I still remember being that skinny kid that no woman would really look at so it's funny now how the reaction is reversed from the opposite sex as it was when I was a kid.
I never ever envisioned myself competing in fitness modeling competitions. I always thought it wasn't for me, but I had to think of doing something to create more opportunities for me as a fitness model. When I am competing just like anything I've ever done in my life my focus is all about performing at my best. Well with regards to the WBFF I missed my flight and I ended up missing pre-judging. I still competed in the evening portion of the contest but I wasn't judged due to missing the morning of pre-judging. Many important people within the fitness industry that watched that show felt that I would have won that 2008 Fitness Model World Title. So I feel pretty good that I can win this WBFF world title in 2009 if I come in at my best. The WBFF in my unbiased opinion is the best fitness organization out there to provide you great opportunities as a fitness model. Paul Dillett is really revolutionizing the fitness industry with his organization.
BEN TATAR: Do you consider yourself one of the top fitness models in the industry? In your eyes what does a top fitness model constitute?
Obi: The word top has been used loosely at times by so many fitness models from what I've observed, that I believe at times it discredits what a top fitness model truly means. The answer I would say is no for me. I don't believe I've been in the industry long enough to say that and I really allow other people to make their opinions of me in the fitness industry. I do know that many of my peers have said that I am based on being featured in about almost every bodybuilding and fitness magazine in 2008 and the quick success I've attained in the industry My definition of a top fitness model is a model that can average a cover or more each year and is featured in several fitness magazines per year. Also a top fitness model is someone who is ripped all year round and can be available to work at a moment's notice. I believe that if your in this category then you are considered a top fitness model in the industry. There are many top fitness models in my eyes that have never done a cover.
BEN TATAR: You were in the new issue of Max Sports and Fitness! Tell us about it!
Obi: Yes I was on the cover of Max Sports and Fitness for the month of a September with a cover story about me written by Clark Bartram. This cover is a milestone cover because we are the first african-american fitness couple on a fitness magazine. How everything came about is I pitched the idea to Clark Bartram, international fitness legend about doing a AA cover which I've never seen. He ended up pitching the idea to the editor of Max Sports and Fitness and they liked the idea. We shot the cover spec and it was immediately sent to the editor and she loved the pics and immediately they said that we got the cover for the month of September.
BEN TATAR: What was your reaction when you were on the cover of MAX SPORTS magazine?
Obi: I was very elated and very proud of that cover because of the significance. I hope the cover will create more opportunities for other African-American fitness models that are aspiring to be on a fitness cover. I hope we can see more African-American couple covers on fitness magazines.
BEN TATAR: What are your future goals?
Obi: My future goals in fitness modeling is really to be a household name as a fitness model and I feel like I am making the proper steps towards that goal. I would love to be recognized as one of the top fitness models in this business. I also want to be a fitness television personality with the hopes of hosting my own fitness show and to be one of the most proficient fitness writers in the fitness industry.
I really want to use my success to help as many as people become healthier while I am on this earth. There are too many people that are obese in our country and I feel the more success I want to be able to educate people through my articles on how to live a healthy life.
BEN TATAR: BEN TATAR: How did you get so ripped? What is your body fat % at? Do you change your diet? Give us 10 more quick tips to getting ripped!
Obi: Laughing out Loud! You may want to converse to God about that question. I am incredibly blessed because I am naturally lean so it really helps me stay ripped all year round. My natural bodyfat is about 4 to 5 percent so that helps me tremendously. So with those genetics and the way I train I am able to stay lean all year round without having to really change my diet. When I get ready for a shoot I will come from 5 to 3 percent.
My 10 tips in getting ripped: get 8 hours of sleep, drink lots of water, eat clean and have one cheat food a week, get regular hydrostatic bodyfat tests every quarterly to gauge where your bodyfat is at; do your cardio about 4-5 times; take fat burners if necessary for fat that is hard to go away; follow a high protein and low carb diet; eat 4-6 small meals a day to speed up your metabolism; change your workouts every 6 weeks; Believe in yourself and that you can accomplish your goal. If you don't believe it won't happen
BEN TATAR: Give us your training routine!
My training routine is somewhat unique. I train in a explosive/high circuit training method with heavy weight and alternating bodparts with minimal rest. It consists of: Chest and Biceps on Monday, Tues, Shoulders and Back, Wed, legs, calves and abs, Thursday is rest, Friday, Chest and biceps, and Satruday, Shoulders and back. I try work about 10-12 repetions for each Exercise. I will generally do about 4 exercises for each bodypart. I train abs every other day. I also do cardio about 3 to 4 times a week.
BEN TATAR: Were you always this lean and ripped?
Obi: Yes I have always been very lean but when I was younger I was very skinny and I had to work so hard to put on the muscle I have now.
BEN TATAR: What was the best and worst advice you were ever told?
The worst advice I got was from an ex girlfriend telling me that I work out too much and I need to minimize some of my workout days for her. The best advice is always believe in yours.
BEN TATAR: Away from working out, what do you like to do during your free time?
Obi: I love watching movies and I enjoy traveling especially to international countries. There is a whole world out there.
BEN TATAR: What supplements do you take?
Obi: I take Big Max Protein and during my off shoot days I like to take K3 Kre-alkaline
BEN TATAR: So far in your fitness career what experience would you consider to be the most powerful?
Obi: I think I would say the fan base that I am creating as a fitness model already. The adulation you receive from being on a cover or feature spread in a magazine is pretty cool and rewarding. Many people see it and they sometimes gain new found inspiration to be healthier. I love hearing people tell me that I motivate them to go to the gym without ever sharing a single word with that person. Now that's an incredible amount of power.
BEN TATAR: You said you weren't always the best sprinter when you were a child. What drove you to one day become the best and what makes OBI different from everyone else?
Obi: Growing up as a kid I was always one of the fastest kids for my age but for some reason when I got to 8th grade everybody really developed and caught up to me speed wise. Remember I was a a late bloomer and I didn't really blossom into anything as sprinter until my senior in high school.
What drove me to be the best was I knew that eventually I once my physical maturity caught up with my talent that I would be a solid Division I sprinter. What makes me different is I work very hard in everything I do. Even if I have great talent as a fitness model or athlete I will work even harder to see what my potential is. I believe my work ethic in this business is second to none. There is quote that I heard Charles Barkley use which is, "You might work as hard as me but nobody works harder than me". That is kind of how I feel when I hear Charles say that.
BEN TATAR: Tell us a secret about yourself.
Obi: I am a perfectionist and I can never accept mediocrity when it comes to most things.
BEN TATAR: Well, Obi it has been awesome talking to you today you're the man. In closing who would you like to thank?
Obi: I want to Thank Clark Bartram my mentor for being very influential in my early career as fitness model and I want to thank my good friend Greg Plitt who has been very helpful in giving me guidance in the industry. He is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. I am so glad he is my friend. I also want to thank Paul Dillett, President Of WBFF who has given great guidance and exposure in the fitness industry. Lastly I want to thank Critical Bench for interviewing me. I was flattered and honored to be selected as the most ripped fitness model on the planet from Ben of Critical Bench. What does someone say to that? WOW! I am still kind of speechless!
BEN TATAR: This is Ben Tatar from Critical Bench and I must say that it has been a pleasure interviewing you Obi. Keep inspiring the world with your physique and humbling-inspirational nature. You are definitely transforming the fitness industry and I believe if anyone can touch lives it is you. All the best.
BEN TATAR: Wow! Obi, you have captured the hearts and minds of a lot of experts and ripped models in the fitness industry! I have followed you this past year and without a doubt you arguably had one of the best 1st year's ever for a fitness model. What magazines were you in 2008? I mean I've seen you literally in almost every bodybuilding and fitness magazine.
BEN TATAR: Obi what is your highest vertical jump? Can you jump higher than Michael Jordan and out run him?
BEN TATAR: Great bench press tips! You didn't beat around the bush and gave powerful bench tips in a nutshell. Obi you were the first african american model ever on a fitness cover for Inside Fitness Magazine. How does it feel to be looked at as pioneer in this way?
BEN TATAR: Obi, who are your mentors in this industry?
BEN TATAR: What are your future goals?
BEN TATAR: So far in your fitness career what experience would you consider to be the most powerful?
