Passion takes form

International model Ivo Buchta flexes his dedication to fitness and shares it with others through Shaped by iB

Saying that staying fit is essential to becoming a successful model is an understatement. Models must be just as passionate about taking care of their bodies as they are about walking the runway or posing in front of the camera. After all, their body is their tool.

But for some, fitness has been an avenue to help other people. That is true in Ivo Buchta’s case. For years, the Vienna-born model has been working in different fashion capitals, collaborating with big brands and designers. His fast-paced life opened his eyes to how challenging it could be for people to focus on maintaining their physical well-being. Eventually, he found the perfect formula.

“Efficiency and a lack of time were always the deciding factors when choosing the best and healthiest workout,” Ivo says. “My original motivation was always to create a great, time-saving workout.”

After visiting gyms and fitness classes in Europe and the US, he decided to open a gym to be able to share what he learned with other people. With the help of his friends, Chris (a master’s degree holder in sports management from the US) and Tom (a professional soccer player), Ivo developed the toughest and most efficient workout and founded Shaped by iB.

A fitness studio located in Vienna, Austria, Shaped by iB offers various group classes, including cycling (which they recommend for beginners), HIIT, boxing-inspired workouts, and Lagree-inspired classes (a form of Pilates).

To learn more about Ivo’s new venture, GLEN Magazine sits down with him as he looks back on his early modeling days, his passion for fitness, and what makes Shaped by iB a standout.

First of all, can you tell us your story? How old are you, where are you originally from, and what inspired you to become a model?
I’m 30 years old, born and raised in Vienna, Austria, in Europe. My inspiration was my cousin, who truly believed in my potential when I was 18 years old and had just finished school. She helped and motivated me to take my first steps in the industry.

As a model, what challenges have you encountered?
It’s a very tough business. You go to castings, and mostly you get rejections. The competition is huge, and you have to watch out for yourself, physically and mentally.

What have been the most memorable experiences so far?
My first fashion week in Milan and Paris was quite special. Walking for brands like Moschino, Versace, Dolce and Gabbana, and many more has truly been an unforgettable experience. Furthermore, I had the pleasure of doing a Dsquared2 campaign with Mert and Marcus in 2016, which was amazing as well.

Fitness is a big part of your job as a model, which led you to co-found Shaped by iB. When did you establish it, and who are the people behind it?
We formed our first company in April 2018. Together with my two childhood friends, I took the risk to start our own business, and so far it’s been a hell of a journey. We love what we do, and we couldn’t think of a better job.

What makes Shaped by iB different from other fitness studios?
It’s the community. We have so many great people walking in and out every day, and it’s so much fun to work and especially train with all of them. Additionally, I’d say our interior is unique, and you won’t find any similar studios anywhere in the world.

What would you recommend beginners try at Shaped by iB?
Any class is possible for beginners. I’d recommend that the cycling classes are more friendly to first-timers than the others.

What’s your typical exercise or fitness routine?
I try to lift weights three times a week, do two HIIT classes, and one Lagree miniformer Class at Shaped by iB. Normally, I try to work out in the morning, but it depends on my schedule.

How about your diet—what do you usually consume in a day?
I eat three times a day minimum: breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I try to plan to eat always at the same time, and very protein- and carb-oriented.

Lastly, in your opinion, why should everyone focus on their fitness?
Because your health is the most important thing in your life, and you should take care of it on a daily basis.