By David Tepera, December 2, 2020

We are now full-fledged into the holiday season. It’s been quite a challenging year for all of us, but how are you going to finish 2020?

When you compete in sports, it’s the fourth quarter, final inning or the last few minutes on the clock that will determine the outcome. This is where leaders separate themselves from others.

Are you throwing in the towel and letting the final minutes slip away, or will all the hard work and prep take you over the finish line to win the game? That choice is up to you.

None of us enjoy losing, so don’t accept failure.

What does it take to find success? For Tina and me, it was sacrificing evenings and weekends to build our brand. We used discipline and persistence to continue our growth.

All of us will face criticism and rejections, but don’t let that stop you from taking risks. This is your life, so go after your goals by putting forth full effort.

What lessons did you learn throughout the year? How did you bounce back? What’s your game plan to finish the season? What momentum will you create to start the coming year?

These are serious questions you must be asking yourself today. Napoleon Hill once wrote “a goal is a dream with a deadline.”

If you suffered failure, just know it is a new beginning. If you don’t go after your dreams and goals, you’ll never have them. You have nothing to lose and will only gain experience. Never compare yourself to others because you must live out your own destiny.

Remember, when you’re finding success, there will be people who will criticize you. That’s their insecure problem, so brush it off. I find criticism as a form of flattery because really, it’s just jealousy.

My friend Jeff started his own machine shop over 15 years ago. He had plenty of people telling him that he would fall on his face. Jeff did fall on hard times where I even helped pay to keep his truck from being repossessed. Jeff kept on his path, stopped listening to people, and now his business is a multimillion-dollar corporation.

Now here we are in the last month of the year. Get your game face on and be ready to finish the season with a championship because you are a winner.

By David Tepera, November 25, 2020

Just about every decision you’ve made or will make in life is because of a reasoning and should be answered with the question, “Why?”

Why did you start exercising and eating healthy? Did you finally get fed up with being overweight and exhausted all the time? Was your daily life on a down slide heading to depression, so you made the choice to take control?

What happens to most of us who start a healthier lifestyle? At some early point, you quit. You must again answer the question, “Why?” Of course, quitting is from lack of discipline.

We have clients who come to us with multiple joint problems. Over the next several months, we help resolve their issue, plus teach them how to lift weights properly. Our hopes, when they decide to venture on their own, is that they can walk into any gym and lift weights injury free.

But again, some people stop exercising and come back to us because their joints get stiff and issues are reappearing. I always ask, “Why did you stop lifting weights?”

We must ask ourselves, “Why?” in other aspects of life. Why did we choose this career path or that particular job? Are you still giving the same effort to succeed as when you started? Did you lose your ambition?

Why did you choose this person to be your spouse? Over time, are you still treating each other with respect and love, or did you get settled in and take advantage?

Listen, it doesn’t matter what is happening in your life at this moment. You must find a way to get out of your comfort zone and change things around. You were once vibrant, excited and enjoying life to the fullest. Today is the day to find the old you and start the journey of being happy again.

Don’t just start something with all cylinders blaring to run out of steam early. You must keep the gas tank full, rev up your engine and attack this world to cross the finish line in first place.

Now, next time you start something that enhances your life, don’t forget, it began with the question, “Why?”

I would like to wish each and every one of you a very happy Thanksgiving Day.

By David Tepera, November 11, 2020

It’s been an interesting week at Ageless Muscle. Many clients came in with a game face because they needed to blow off some frustration. They attacked their weight training program like a professional athlete. To tell you the truth, it was a lot of fun to watch them make new gains in strength and stamina.

We all have many reasons to be frustrated in our daily lives, but I want everyone to know that performing exercise is one of the best medicines for many reasons.

Putting your body through the stress of exercise will produce endorphins that makes you feel better, plus gain confidence to tackle your problems. It’s not just for your physical being, but mental as well.

Don’t you agree, our daily lives of working, parenting and family is the most important responsibilities we have? These are the immediate relationships that we must invest our time in, not the things we can’t control.

How many of you are dealing with a personal tragedy? It could be lack of income, divorce, family death or a slew of multiple reasons.

I knew people who ran to the liquor bottle thinking they could drown their problems. Others ran to the buffet hoping food would comfort them. Not me, I used exercising and the weight room to help me feel better, open my mind, and put me on a better path to getting my life back together.

When I lost my son Army Specialist Dustin over eight years ago, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring many people through a weight lifting program. I would consult them during each weight training session to see the world more positively.  

You see, at Ageless Muscle, Tina, Dylan and I are not only professional trainers, but many of our training programs turn into therapy sessions.

What I’m trying to convey today is for you take control of what you can control. What goes into your mind is what you allow. Don’t let others dictate your thinking process. Remember, you can’t always control what happens to you, but you have complete control how you will respond.

The weather these days has been wonderful. Get outside and take a long walk, listen to uplifting music, and think about all the things that you make you happy. I promise, it will be a game changer for your whole body.

Let’s all find a way to not only love ourselves, but to love each other. To get started, all it takes is exercise and a weight training program.

Happy Veteran’s Day to all of our heros!

By David Tepera, October 28, 2020

There’s no secret — we’ve all used excuses for our downfalls. No one likes their weaknesses to be exposed. It’s easier and less embarrassing to verbally make an excuse than to admit failure.

Do you find yourself tired all the time? What’s your excuse for not going to bed earlier? During the week, we wake at 3 a.m. because our first client starts at 4:30 a.m., so we’re in bed by 8 p.m.

I have people tell me they don’t have time for exercise? My first question is, “What’s your favorite television show?” There’s always a quick reply, so I tell them, “You obviously have time to exercise. You just choose not to.”

I know there are plenty of people who live paycheck to paycheck, believe me, I understand your frustration. But, if you find yourself constantly making excuses of not having enough money, stop wasting it. Keep your receipts or write down every item you bought for the month. I’m sure we will all find crazy impulse buying that we regret.

Is it necessary to keep up with the latest trends? The wireless headphone we use only cost $25, and the clarity is amazing. We don’t need the overly expensive trendy brands. Just take the time to shop wisely, plus check reviews.

Of course, with our country having an obesity epidemic, we hear multiple reasons why people make excuses for being overweight. But really, we all know deep inside it’s lack of discipline.

How much fast food do you eat? When’s the last time you cooked healthy foods? And no, a bowl of Cheerios doesn’t count. We spend every Sunday afternoon preparing our meals for the week. Our days are long, so we utilize a small refrigerator and microwave at Ageless Muscle.

Look, I’m not trying to say I’m making better choices than you or I don’t make excuses. I’m trying to continue to learn from my mistakes and become more productive. I’m only wanting to make you think and take ownership of possible reckless behaviors.

Now, where are you and where do you want to be? If you don’t like your current situation, take action and do something about it. Don’t let others dictate your destiny — you have complete control of you.

Once we learn to stop pointing the finger and making excuses, we can move forward toward a better life and happiness.

By David Tepera, October 21, 2020

When your eyes open each morning, your first decision will dictate your day. Are you dreading getting up or are you ready to begin your action plans?

Remember, your only competition is your procrastination. That’s a bad habit you must release.

What thoughts are you allowing to take over your mind? It’s easy to get caught up in all the negativity we encounter each day, but you can always find the good in every situation.

Why not start making changes today? Put some pep in your step and choose happiness.

For years, I never allow my feet to hit the ground until I thank God for giving me another day to be a better person, father and husband.

As I’m cooking breakfast, I go down the list of all my clients for the day and get excited knowing I’ll make a difference in their lives. I’m sure there are many of you who share the same enthusiasm as me.

It’s time to replace the words “could, should, would” with the words “did and done.” When I was coaching high school sports, I’d tell the players to execute with force, even if you go the wrong direction, you better go 100 percent. Don’t give up.

Look, you don’t stop doing things because you get older; you get older by stopping doing things.

That’s what we love about Ageless Muscle Fitness Center because most clients are in the older population. It’s rewarding to witness people into their 70’s gaining muscle and enjoying life to the fullest.

If you’ve been following my column, you’re aware of my oldest client, Pater. He’ll turn 102 years old on Oct. 23 and is still making improvements with his weight training program.

Whatever situation or environment you’re living, create leadership within yourself, put on a smile and get yourself moving. Quit wasting the day away. You get to make that choice each day. Don’t let others keep you down, so take control of your life.

I just shake my head when I hear people blaming others for their current situation. Yes, we all make mistakes, but those are only lessons. Pick yourself up and bust through another obstacle.

You’re only competing with yourself, so get out there, make a difference, make people’s lives better and punch procrastination in the face.

By David Tepera, October 14, 2020

Throughout the journey of life, we all have felt the pain of regret. We each can make a long list of words we wished were never said, including actions we took or didn’t take.

It’s these regretful times when lessons should be learned. The biggest question is, “Did these negative experiences make you a better person?”

We have many people come to Ageless Muscle because they regret not working out earlier in life. They were just about to throw in the towel when something gave them the courage to try one more time. They come to us with multiple joint problems and body pains.

We let them know that the biggest hurdle was already accomplished by walking in our door. From here, all it takes is discipline to be consistent.

At first, it might seem painful to have the discipline to drive to our gym and train several times a week, but within a month or two, it becomes a passion.

I feel we’ve all have learned the pain of discipline. I’m not just referring to exercise and diet, but other aspects of life.

There are more people who’ve quit college than actually graduate. I know someone who could never hold a job in the home health industry from lack of discipline. She bounced from one company to the other until she was no longer employable.

We’ve all experienced the pain of regret when it comes to relationships. It could be from friendships, coworkers, relatives or spouses. Maybe it’s time to stop regretting and pick up the phone and apologize for your part. I promise, it could be a new beginning to mend broken relationships.

Look, what happened yesterday is gone. It’s up to you to learn from the pain and make today a better day. You might be experiencing depression or anxiety, but sitting there doing nothing will be another “pain of regret.”

Each day gone is another day lost, so let’s quit this pattern of regret. You have the power to make decisions and control your destiny. It’s never too late to find the pain of discipline and create a better life.

Don’t listen to others, follow your conscience because happiness and fulfillment is right in front of you.

By David Tepera, October 8, 2020

At the age of 59, life has been quite a ride for me.

I’ve been in sports and fitness almost my entire life. I grew up a coach’s son, played and excelled in multiple sports, coached high school sports through the 1990s, turned professional athlete at the age of 55, and am owner of Ageless Muscle Fitness Center with my wife Tina. Of course, somehow I squeezed in 20 years in orthopedics, as well.

Those of you who are of my age, remember growing up and only knowing your friend’s parents by their last names. They were called Mr. and Mrs. Smith, not by their first names. For some reason, this tradition of respect has lost its value. Why not bring it back to our youth?

How rare is it these days to hear the words “ma’am and sir?” Even Tina and I will respond to everyone we encounter, including young restaurant servers. with ma’am or sir.

Our youth have lost respect for elders, bosses, law enforcement, teachers, coaches or anyone of higher authority. What our young people understand is the people I’ve listed have earned their respect. Elders and others have lived and experienced life, and should be treated as such.

Speak to your bosses and coworkers with respect and notice how you’ll gain the edge when it comes to promotions. It’s the little things.

When did people lose common sense when getting pulled over for a traffic violation? You probably broke the law, so give the officer respect and possibly drive away with a warning. But, if you’re an idiot, you’ve lost all chance for an edge.

As a former coach, the players who made the biggest impact on me were the ones who were first in line, kept their eyes on me during speeches and instruction, helped with equipment and supported their teammates. They might not had been the most talented athlete, but they got opportunities because I know they would give me their best. It’s the little things.

After many years of marriage, how many husbands still open doors for their wives? I told Tina it’s my honor to open doors for her and show respect for all women when I open doors for them. It’s the little things that make her love me.

Let’s all start today by showing others respect and courtesy because you never know when the little things will give you an edge.

By David Tepera, September 30, 2020

Wherever you are in life today, the only way to move forward is by taking full responsibility.

Just because you’re unhealthy with multiple medical problems, is it up to the doctor to heal you? At what point do you accept making destructive decisions of food, drink and others that put you into that condition? Are you expecting more pills and medicine to cure you? Maybe they will, and maybe they won’t. Now it’s time to take control and start a healthy diet and lifestyle.

Is it the teacher’s responsibility to make you learn? I was a high school science teacher back in the 1990s. I could give all the information needed for a particular subject, but unless students wanted to learn, it wasn’t going to happen. I did my best to engage each student and make learning fun.

Is it the coach’s responsibility for you to be a starter on the team? A coach’s job is to motivate, game plan, teach proper skills and create leadership among players.

Unless that athlete wants to grow and become better, he or she must take responsibility to put in the extra effort and work. To truly reach your best athletic ability, it’s up to you.

If you utilize a personal trainer, is it up to them to get you fit? If you’re not gaining wanted results, maybe you should look within yourself. Are you really engaging and putting forth the energy required? Are you only exercising with a trainer or are you taking responsibility and exercising on your own? How bad do you truly want it?

How about your relationships? Are you being the partner you’d want your partner to be? If the relationship is without trust, can you take responsibility and make it secure? As we all know, there’s typically two sides of each story. Someone needs to step up and take over maturity.

Do you still wake up each day dreading the work day? Why and how long have you been miserable? Is it a coworker, the hours or the actual job description? Do you blame others for having another bad day or do you take responsibility and flip your attitude?

Don’t let others keep you down. Be the uplifted person everyone wants to be around. Someone needs to step up and create an exciting teamwork workplace environment.

Now, it doesn’t matter what circumstances you’re under today because to succeed, you’re going to take responsibility.

By David Tepera, September 23, 2020

OK, I’m going to try and keep this as simple as possible. Within all muscle groups, there are a subset of fast and slow twitch muscle fibers. What type of exercising you’re performing will determine which muscle fibers you’re developing.

Slow twitch muscle fibers are aerobic which means “with oxygen,” so they are used for long distance exercise. These particular muscles are elongated and small. For example, those of you who enjoy jogging or spend hours of cardio, your body type will be more lanky without much muscle definition, but your cardiovascular system will be in good shape.

To give you a better example, think of an Olympian marathon runner, what body type do they possess? Typically, skinny Ethiopian people are top champions — right? That is definitely the definition of a slow twitch muscle fiber body.

Just know, if all you perform is cardio, your body is tapping into its muscle and causing a catabolic effect, which means your body is burning muscle tissue for energy. It prevents you from building muscle.

Now, what about fast twitch muscle fibers? These fibers are anaerobic, which means “without oxygen.” They are explosive and big. This is what body builder’s muscles are composed of.

Let’s use another example of Olympian sprinters. What do their body types look like? To me, they are like bull frogs. Their legs are huge and muscular. How long do they run? Ten seconds? These runners might take one breathe during the entire race — it’s explosive. Weight lifting is explosive.

If you want to grow lean muscle and have an athletic look, weight training is a must. Applying weight resistance to your body is the only way to grow muscle. This is the exact reason why at Ageless Muscle all our clients learn proper weight training. It’s exciting to watch people into their 70s get rid of shoulder, hip, knee and back pain to grow impressive muscle definition and mass.

Just curious, what type of personality trait do you possess? Are you like slow twitch muscle fibers and just take your time and cruise through each day? Or, are you more like a fast twitch muscle fiber and blow and go a hundred miles per hour? Either one is OK according to your lifestyle as long as you are productive.

My goal today was to give you a better perspective of the body type you’re creating from your workouts. If you ever have any questions, just know, I personally answer each email I receive.

Now, put your training plan together and build the right muscle fibers you want.

By David Tepera, September 16, 2020

You’ve read many times about our weight training programs for older people at Ageless Muscle Fitness Center. We truly love changing lives for those who thought it was too late, or they were too broken.

Today, I want to focus on our younger generation. It’s already difficult being a teenager these days, and then the coronavirus shutdown has given many of them anxiety and depression.

My personal thought is we live in a world where people are being over-medicated. Yes, medicine is necessary, but I also know exercise, proper diet and laughter has many curing effects.

The following information in this article is not just about our gym, but for you to seek at other facilities near you.

My 22-year-old son Dylan personally trains and manages our fitness center. Dylan trains people of all ages, young athletes, but his specialty is teenagers with depression, anti-social issues and other mental and physical challenges.

Within a short period of time, it’s exciting to watch these kids come out of their shell, build confidence and start loving life again.

When searching a facility for your teenager or young adult, here are some of my suggestions.

Typically, these young people do not like crowds or large groups. A one-on-one personal trainer will be a must. The training style should be a slow progression through a weight lifting program. It cannot be a screaming loud coaching style trainer who from day one is flying 100 miles per hour. Your kid will hate it.

Also, I’m not putting an age range on trainers for your teenager, but a connection will be needed.

Dylan is a former high school athlete of multiple sports, a Texas Teen Beach Physique champion and a role model for all his clients. He has a gift of connecting with people according to their challenges.

Dylan has learned to become part of his client’s mental world to understand their way of thinking. Dylan uses our weight training program as a tool to get his clients to smile, communicate and build confidence as their bodies grow.

I’m sure each of you reading this knows someone who has tried about every medicine or therapy session possible. Why not give a kid a better opportunity through health and fitness? Maybe, one day they won’t need to seek medicine for every ailment.

We hear it often from our clients, “I’d rather pay you than pay a doctor.”