By David Tepera, September 28, 2022

Today’s article is inspired by my client Judi. She challenged me to come up with a personal “walk-up” song. I’m known to be quick-witted with a fast comeback, but Judi stumped me.

So, what am I referring to? Currently, in the game of baseball, players pick out a song that’s played while they are walking to the batter’s box. The song is supposed to be a reflection of their personality, plus fire up the crowd.

OK, how did this all start? Well, it became popular after the comedy film “Major League” (1989), in which relief pitcher Rick “Wild Thing” Vaughn entered the game to a cover of “Wild Thing” performed by X. It became so popular that now batters select songs as they come to the plate to get the fans cheering.

But really, most people don’t know the actual origin of walk-up began on the fingertips of an organ player Nancy Faust. She was the organist for the Chicago White Sox starting in the 1970s. Faust would play each player’s home state song when they walked up to the plate.

Then she would be creative. For example, if the player was dating Madonna, she would play “Like a Virgin.” Or if the player was a rookie, she would play the Who’s song “Who Are You.” I’m sure by now you get my point and understand its origin.

Now, let me ask you — when you walk into work, boosting with confidence and with all eyes on you, what is your walk-up song? Which music beat and lyrics reflects your personality?

Maybe you have a team meeting today and are expected to participate. What is going to hype you up to come to the plate, swinging for home runs? How can you stand out from the crowd of coworkers?

Some of you have regular chemo treatment. Next appointment, walk in with your head high and chest proud. There is no way cancer is going to take you down. From now on, you’re going to come out swinging and punch disease in the face. You have a long life ahead of you, so it’s time to start living it.

Starting today, for all of you, when you walk out your door to conquer the world, put your game face on and start shouting the old George Thorogood song “Bad to the Bone”.

By David Tepera, September 21, 2022

One way to reduce stress in our lives is by staying in a healthy routine. For example; getting up early enough each morning to prepare for work and arriving there on time.

How many of you start your day off with stress because you can’t stop hitting the snooze button? Is your house a total wreck and the bed unmade because you’re running late again?

Maybe it’s time to change your routine by getting to bed earlier at night, along with staying off social media. Just know, all those people out there in the cyber world are not really your friends.

There are plenty of studies that prove how stress causes many illnesses, along with shortening lifespan. I know people who gorge on food when their stress levels rise, plus the food choices are not on the healthy menu.

Look, you can’t escape stress, but you shouldn’t be self-inflecting additional stress either.

What other areas in your life are causing unnecessary stress? Make a list, and then find a way to eliminate them from your routine. If it’s people, then hit the delete button and cease all contact. Miserable people like others to be miserable with them.

Now, what changes do you need to make your routine productive and stress-free? Tina and I cook all our food on Sundays for the upcoming work week. Then each evening, I put together the meals needed for the following day. This eliminates any desire to eat unhealthy grab-and-go foods.

Also, part of our routine is to arrive at our gym at least 45 minutes before the first client. This gives us time to check bathrooms and set up equipment, along with other management duties.

How would your life change if your routine was getting to work earlier than coworkers to start organizing? It could lead to advancements and pay raises.

What if your routine consisted of lifting weights and performing cardio? Believe me, your confidence level will start soaring, which brings attention to others. Just know, it could lead to meeting your soulmate. I know plenty of couples who met through health and fitness.

Now, if your stress levels are overwhelming, then it’s time to take control and get more disciplined. Don’t fall into the trap of laziness. You’re better than that. Remember, utilize a healthy routine to take stress out of your life.

By David Tepera, September 15, 20222

There is a saying that people remember your failures more than your successes. For those of you who follow sports, it’s common for spectators to criticize coaches and players for bad plays.

There are plenty of internet bullies who voice their opinion and blast professionals because they think they know better. But, if you watch athletes long enough, then you’ll see the quarterback redeem himself with a winning touchdown, the previous strikeout batter hit the walk-off home run, or the basketball player who missed the free throw sink the winning 3-point shot.

You see, our lives are just like the sports we watch or participate in. Life will throw curve balls to strike you out. You might even get hit by a pitch. Yes, it hurts at first, but you’ll jump back up to take another swing.

Other times, life seems to be moving smoothly, then all of a sudden, a catastrophe knocks your feet out from under you. But, because nothing can keep you down, you’ll regroup and come back stronger.

Now, this is the person you must be known for. One who can bounce back from any adverse condition.

If you’re in this world, you can’t escape failure. Some people dive head first into situations, while others curl up and hide. You alone must make the decision to be strong or not.

If it hasn’t happened already, you will one day mourn the loss of a loved one. Maybe it’s a spouse you’ve spent decades with. Hopefully not, but there are those, like me, who’ve buried children. The death of my 23-year-old son Dustin almost took me under. At that time, I was a single parent raising a 10-year-old and a 12-year-old, so I didn’t have a choice but to stay strong.

Another time, I hit hard financial times that wiped out all my retirement and investments. I had to file chapter 13 bankruptcy to set up payments. My credit score was ranking around zero.

Throughout the years, I paid everything back, met my wife and created a booming business.

I’m not trying to give a “look at me” speech here. I’m letting you know that I’m just like you. You might be really dealing with some serious issues today. You could be backed into a corner and don’t know how to fight your way out.

Look, keep your head high and don’t give up. You’ll get through this like you have in the past. Guess what? I promise, as long as you keep moving forward, life will be better than before.

Remember, be known for bouncing back from failures more than your successes.

By David Tepera, September 7, 2022

Years ago, my daughter Daylyn asked that because I live such a healthy lifestyle, would this help me live longer? My reply was, “Exercising and eating healthy does not guarantee longer life, but it will allow you to enjoy the life you’re living.”

There’s no secret, as we age, our bodies start breaking down. The less you exercise, the faster the body deteriorates. You can’t win against Father Time, but you can sure put up a fight.

Listen, I don’t care how old or decrepit you are today. You can still join this fight. All it takes is getting your body in motion. Start walking, limping or rolling around the block; plus it’s a must to add weight resistance to your routine.

Even if you can’t afford a gym membership, then grab a few cans of beans and start performing arm curls and shoulder raises.

As you know, our Ageless Muscle gym caters to clients of the older generation. It’s very rewarding to witness their aches and pains diminish and to see muscle development generating, along with cardiovascular conditioning. Bottom line, they all get to enjoy life again and go back to doing the hobbies they love.

One client put it this way: “David, it’s a lot cheaper to pay you than my doctor; plus, I’m having fun”.

Now, I’m sure we aren’t the only gym that helps seniors. Do your research in your area and find what’s best for your needs and income. I’m sure there’s plenty of help out there.

Tomorrow is too late. Aren’t you tired of going from the bed to the recliner? Is this how your life will end? Is your conversation only about bad health? Believe me, we all have aches and pains, so we don’t want to hear about yours.

How do you want to be indentified? Hopefully, when people talk about you, it’s because you’re a fighter who inspires others.

My friend Pater Johnson, who I trained for years, lived to be 102 years old. He only used a walker for balance. Other than that, he enjoyed life to the fullest through exercise and weight training. I sure miss my best friend.

So, come on now, what are you going to do? Don’t throw in the towel. Get up. I mean it. Throw this paper to the side and take back control of your life. Be proud of yourself because you chose to start living again.

Remember, no matter your age, exercise will improve your quality of life.

By David Tepera, September 1, 2022

The first time I ever attempted lifting weights was when I was a sophomore in high school. I was a short, skinny kid with hopes of building muscles. It was something I really wanted, so I walked into the school weight room to get started.

The older boys already had big muscles and were throwing around some heavy weights. One of the football coaches was training and teaching the players how to get stronger.

I did my best to not get noticed and worked my way to an empty bench press. I wasn’t sure how much weight to put on the bar, so I made it equal 100 pounds. I thought this would be a good number.

Well, it didn’t go as I’d hope. I quickly found out that I couldn’t even lift 100 pounds. I was so embarrassed as the older boys were laughing at me. The football coach, who was the strongest and most muscled person in the room, came over to me and told me not to be embarrassed. He said that he was about my size at the same age and that you have to start somewhere.

I did walk out to never return throughout high school because I didn’t want to be perceived as weak. I think we all know how tough school kids can be. Just know, I did play sports, so my growth and conditioning came from sports alone.

That statement from the football coach about “you have to start somewhere” haunted me for years. So, finally, at the age of 26, I walked back into the weight room to get started and haven’t stopped in over 35 years.

My life was completely transformed. I’ve been in the health and fitness industry my entire adult life. My athletic kids were raised in this environment. I met my wife in a gym. We both became professional athletes in physique competitions, plus we own a fitness center.

This all happened because I wanted to lift 100 pounds on a bench press.

Now, what do you want to accomplish? Do you have a passion for something that could completely change your life? What and who is preventing you from moving forward?

Don’t let anything stop you. This is your life, and time is a wasting. Sometimes, you don’t need a full plan because things will change along to way. Remember, If you really want it, then just get started.

By David Tepera, August 25, 2022

As we go through life, there are times when we want something so badly that it completely consumes our minds. But, what eventually happened to that passion? Once we conquer it, we seem to not give it much attention any more.

When it comes to relationships, how bad did you want the girl or guy? Were you giving up sleep and eliminating everything in order to court this person? Then, hopefully, after all the attention and investment you put into the courtship, you both were happily married.

Why over time does this passion go away? What happened that you are no longer best friends? Just because your wife had children, that’s still the sexiest person you wanted so badly.

Parenting is a full-time partnership. When children are young, most times parents have a difficult time to focus on themselves. So, it’s OK to gain a little weight and get out of shape together. But, you must continue to find a way to court each other emotionally.

Remember, the grass isn’t greener on the other side as long as you’re watering your own grass.

How many of you saved up and finally bought your dream car? At first, you kept it clean and immaculate. But then, you started making monthly payments, and it needed new tires and regular oil changes. Because of all the maintenance, you lost interest and now you want something different.

For some reason, most people are always chasing something bigger when it comes to material luxury. Don’t misunderstand me. Yes, you should pursue higher or self-employment, education, more income, dreams and passion. Just don’t let keeping up with the Joneses make you lose focus of your destiny.

Now, how bad do you want to lose weight? How many diet and exercise programs have you failed? At first, you were all in and started losing weight. What made you give up — again? Why can’t you stick with a program?

Look, everything we had control of and failed was because of our lack of discipline. Notice the key phrase is “control of.” Don’t let so-called “bad days” make you quit. It’s only a minor setback, so get back up and keep trying.

Today you are going to change your game plan. It’s time to recognize and embrace all that surrounds you because you do remember how badly you once wanted what you have now.

By David Tepera, August 17, 2022

In combat sports such as mixed martial arts, to tap the floor is to show that you’ve accepted that your competitor has beaten you. This typically happens when you’ve been put in a submissive hold and the pain is too intense to continue. At this point of tapping out, your competitor will release you and claim victory.

Now, if it hasn’t happened already, believe me, at some point it will: Life will put you in some type of a choke hold. It will be hard to breathe and difficult to think sanely, plus you’ll want to give up to reach out and tap the floor.

Listen, life is not a straight path to victory. When you’re fighting an opponent, they will land some punches and kicks, but you just keep swinging because you’re going to connect better shots.

In know it’s hard to stay focused when you think you’re losing the battle, but stay in the fight. Remember, every aspect of your life is choices. You can give up or keep going. It’s still your choice.

Don’t let setbacks of health issues take you down. The loss of a close loved one can be devastating. This is the same with divorce, lack of income, or you fill in the blank.

This past weekend, Tina and I were leaving a restaurant and noticed something small and furry laying in a parking spot. Because we own rescue animals, it’s in our nature to take a look.

To our surprise, it was a baby kitten that was less than 10 days old. We looked around for others, but none were to be found. So, Tina scooped it up and away we went. Tina contacted her kitten rescue friends Karen and Vicky, and they supplied us with all resources necessary.

Bottom line, this kitten’s natural instinct is to live and not tap out. We are bottle feeding, caring, nurturing and showering it with love as it fights for another day. Of course, there’s more to this story, but there will be a happy ending when one day it’s loved by an adopted family.

Now, today, your life is going to make a change. You’re the one that will take control. It’s you that has the opponent in a submissive hold and will win this battle. Just remember, know matter how tough life can get, don’t tap out.

By David Tepera, August 10, 2022

There’s no secret, each and every one of us enjoys recognition for work well done. In the employment world, the goal is to receive financial rewards for overachieving.

Employers must have these incentive plans in place in order to get the most out of employees. If not, your best workers will find better opportunity with your competition. So, start praising and supporting your hard workers.

Ask yourself, “how often do I encourage and support those around me?” Do you have children? Do they spend most of their day with you yelling and scolding them? When’s the last time they heard you say how proud you are?

It’s up to parents to give kids confidence in order to be successful in this competitive world. Sometimes as parents, we need to take a step back from our hectic work load and shower our kids with love. Remember, kids learn to be parents from their parents.

For those in relationships and spouses, is it one-sided or a partnership? Most people are constantly trying to lose weight. Are you encouraging and supporting their efforts?

We have several couples who train at our gym. It’s fun to watch them work hard together to achieve a common goal. Relationships can build and become stronger by exercising and eating healthy together.

As most of you know, Tina and I are training partners, plus we cook and do all our food prep together each weekend. We put on some music, share a little wine and dance around the kitchen. It’s fun to act like teenagers sometimes. Wink-wink.

Now, what are you going to do today to make a change? It’s time to stop being a grumpy old nobody. No one wants to hang around and listen to negative people. Quit spilling sewage in people’s ears. Those days are over.

The first person you’re going to encourage today is yourself. Go look in the mirror to see someone beautiful looking back. You’re smart, funny and kind. It’s time to fall back in love with you.

We all know beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, so love and be kind to yourself. This will spill out into all those around you. It will become your nature to make a difference in this world with just a few words of encouragement.

By David Tepera, August 3, 2022

Did you wake up this morning with a big smile because you’re starting a brand-new day? No matter what yesterday consisted of, you can make today a better day.

Maybe you’re smiling because you decided to step out of your comfort zone and begin a happier life. Today, you decided to let go of all the negative people and focus on you.

One thing we get to witness every day at our fitness center is the huge smile on our clients’ faces as they walk out the door. They feel the confidence and accomplishment from pushing themselves.

You can build a positive mental state by just walking out the door for a stroll around the block. The body needs to sweat to rid itself of impurities. Smiling always comes from a good productive workout. You will also be proud of yourself for eating healthier.

When’s the last time you were smiling because you did a good deed for someone and didn’t expect anything in return? It’s as simple as opening doors with a sincere “hello.”

Remember, people every day are dealing with negative forces that the world throws at us. It’s easy to let these unwanted forces take over your mind which leads to depression.

Once you recognize that this is happening, then let out a big loud laugh and tell Mr. Negative, “You can’t infiltrate this mind. I’m too beautiful, smart and happy.”

Recently, I was having a conversation with one of my clients. Like most of us, he has plenty of stressful situations in his life. I told Robbie that a long time ago I got rid of all the unnecessary drama and stress in my life. If anyone tries to create any issues with me, then they get the delete button. I don’t argue with people, I eliminate them.

So, all of you our there can get rid of yours, too.

Now, take a moment and think about all the things in your life that make you smile. Reflect over the memories that made you laugh and feel loved. Stop worrying about the negatives and focus on the positives.

Once you can grasp all the goodness that surrounds you, your life will immediately change. There is so much good around us, you just need to realize it’s starring you back in the mirror.

Just remember, forget the doom and gloom because it’s time to smile.

By David Tepera, July 27, 2022

As most of you know, even though we train people of all ages, our gym caters mostly to the older generation. A large portion of our weight lifting clients are in their 70s, with some in their 80s. I thoroughly enjoy our many conversations.

You see, I’m 61 years old, and my great grandmother, who I knew very well, was born in 1898. To me, I think it sounds very old that I knew relatives from the 1800s.

A little side note, in 1898, William McKinley was the 25th President of the United States until he was assassinated Sept. 14, 1901 after leading the nation to victory in the Spanish-American War. His presidency raised protective tariffs to promote American industry.

Now, back to training our older population. I get to hear all the lost words of my elder relatives. Let me throw some out at you to see if it brings back memories, but I’m hopeful some of you are still using.

We all know the lazy guy who’s just “hem hawing” around. I promise, the “proof is in the pudding.” We had fun at the beer joint because we “cut the rug” all night.

How many of you wake you in the middle of the night because of a “Charlie horse?” Some of our male clients are old, so I guess that makes them an “old geezer.”

Why in the “tarnation” are you making all that “racket?” Can’t you do that “over yonder?”

We all know you’re full of “bologna,” so quit making a “fuss” about it.

Anyway, I’m sure most of you have your own list of “lost words.” I truly miss all my older relatives, especially those on my Czech side because the language will be lost after my sister and I.

My mission for all you older folks. You must somehow find a way to reach our younger generation. I feel they are getting lost when it comes to good values, respect and hard work ethic.

Believe me, there’s one thing you can do to get the attention of your grandchildren or younger relatives, and that is through exercise.

As I mentioned, the clients in their 70s can all flash a set of guns. These clients have funny stories of them competing with their grandchildren over the biggest biceps.

There is still a way to connect with our next generation. It’s our duty as older people to put our children on the right path.

This will all start by realizing you are the beautiful generation.