By David Tepera, August 25, 2026

First of all, I want to thank the countless emails I receive each week from readers of my column.

I’m humbled by your kindness letting me know the positive impact I’ve made in people’s lives.

On a side note; I encourage everyone to reach out to the other columnists with kindness and thankfulness. I promise, it will make their day.

Don’t we all want people to treat us with kindness? Of course, none of us are perfect, but that’s what makes us unique.

This world has become so fast pace that people are in a hurry to get from one place to the other. Maybe, it’s time to slow down and have compassion for one another.

Every morning, I rejoice and choose happiness because I get another day to touch someone’s life. Tina is not a morning person, so I do get on her nerves for a few hours.

Look, slough off the haters because they are jealous of something you’ve accomplished. Don’t get pulled into their negative world. Be yourself, find a smile in the hardest moments, and keep moving forward.

Kindness is free medicine we can all share. It instantly changes emotions, reduces stress, improves mood, builds self-esteem, and strengthens relationships.

Believe it or not, physically, kindness may lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, can improve sleep, increase energy, plus encourages physical activity.

Just know, all of this happens when you are giving or receiving kindness. I think we would all like some of that free medicine, so why not share it?

When you are changing other’s lives, you are changing yours along with them. People who choose meanness will find themselves living in a negative world. They will also attract other negative people towards them.

Just like kindness and love will attract positive-minded people into their circle. The choice is clearly up to you.

Now, who’s life will you lift today? Why not live the day like you won the lottery? Wouldn’t you greet everyone with the biggest smile?

We never know what the person in our path is facing. None of us can escape difficult challenges or death of a loved one. It’s very possible that you helped some stranger with just a good-ole-Texas smile, followed with a “howdy”, while opening the door.

By David Tepera, August 19, 2026

From an early age, we start with many physical challenges. When babies learn to walk, they don’t make excuses, they just keep getting back up. What none of us remember is that walking is a continual fall. We learn to put one foot in front of the other to keep from falling down.

Of course, from there, we learn to run, which is a continual fall at a faster pace. This is something we all accomplished without excuses.

At what age did making excuses become the norm? Is your present physical condition a result from a healthy lifestyle or an excuse of laziness and abuse?

Please, don’t misunderstand me. To me, a healthy lifestyle consists of at least moderate exercise, portion-controlled meals, minimal alcohol, along with water hydration.

Notice, I didn’t mention excessive exercise and strict meals. Don’t worry about carrying a little extra weight as long as you are able to enjoy life. If you keep everything moderate, then your prescription list will dwindle. Believe me, we hear these testimonies frequently from our clients. That’s what results sound like.

Also, don’t be hard on yourself. Quit looking at your perceived flaws and saying negative comments about you. When people go down the excuse road, it’s easy for Mr. Depression to enter the mind. That’s not acceptable, so punch him in the face and start creating results.

When I guest speak about fitness and nutrition, one of my opening lines is letting people know that what ever physical appearance they currently possess, they’d be surprised how many people find them attractive.

Here’s a little secret; physical appearance is only a shell, as long as you project confidence, treat people with respect, along with an infectious laugh, then you become the sexiest person in the room.

Listen, we can all make excuses for every aspect of our lives. This includes relationships, employment, finances, self-inflicted health issues, addictions, or you fill in the blank.

Just know, nobody cares about excuses. That is one thing we all share. It’s results that separate us from each other, so why not you? It’s never too late. Our oldest client is 92-years-old and is building his strength to reach new goals. He has given up his walking cane and drives to our gym, so none of us have excuses.

Let me ask you one more time – results or excuses, which one is you?

By David Tepera, August 9, 2026

Due to our presence across the country, it’s very common for people to ask a variety of questions about the timing of lifting weights.

Parents are concerned when their young athletes, involved in sports, should begin a weight training program? Here’s my broad range response; typically, around the age of 12 to 13, this should be the introduction to the weight room. It’s not about how much you lift, but understanding proper technique and etiquette. The weight room is not forgiving; it’s the human body against heavy metal. You must respect the weights, because if not, the body will lose. Hopefully, most of you understand that statement.

My son Dylan and I have been invited to many middle and high schools for input in their athletic weight training program. Dylan is a local known role model for not only young athletes, but special needs as well. That’s another subject for those parents to reach out of how we can change those lives.

Weight training is important for people of almost every age, but when does it become more of a health decision, instead of body composition?

There’s no secret, young adults in their 20’s and 30’s with muscular bodies attract more people than not. It’s the age of learning and exploring adult life, but weight training has additional benefits.

 Now, starting around the age of 40, our bodies are making another adjustment. Women and men realize that youth is in the rearview mirror. To me, it’s the beginning of mature beauty.

Gentlemen, let the young bros battle each other to be the strongest in the gym because no one really cares, especially the ladies.

For the women getting older, just know, if you’re in the gym lifting weights, it makes you sexy, so stop comparing yourself to the twenty-year-olds.

Okay, back to business. The real message is that every age is important to lift weights, even more for the elderly.

Do you find yourself physically weak, no energy, depressed, with no zest for life? Don’t only rely on a handful of prescriptions, so why not stimulate your body through weight resistance?

Listen, there is no age limit on lifting weights. Never think you can’t improve your health because it’s as easy as picking up a few dumbbells to get back in life.

By David Tepera, August 5, 2026

When it comes to medical insurance, I believe we all have our opinions about costs and coverage. As we get older, it is important to have financial help when faced with a medical condition. At the ripe-old-age of 65, I am comfortable with the Medicare programs I chose to meet my needs.

For me personally, I never had health insurance until I went into the medical industry around the age of 40. The only reason I took it was because the company I worked for paid it. The program was good, but I only used it when the kids needed tubes in their ears.

Just know, the first time I ever tapped into health insurance was at the age of 60 due to a severe reaction from a vaccination.

Listen, the following is only my personal opinion and decision. We all must choose what’s best for our health. My whole adult life has been surrounded with health and fitness. I was never diagnosed, but my energy level didn’t slow down until in my 50’s.

To me, it was a waste of money to have medical insurance when I lived a healthy lifestyle. I did understand that accidents are around the corner, but that was the chance I was willing to take.

Here’s a crazy statistic for you; I didn’t pay health insurance from the age of 20 to 40. If calculated at an average of $500 per month the entire 20 years, I saved $120,000 dollars by just being healthy.

What’s your lifestyle costing you? How many prescriptions are you on? Are you improving your doctor’s life or yours? What insurance program are you on?

Come on, this is a reality check. Don’t get me wrong, Tina and I take time out to have fun and get away from the stress of owning a business. Our vacations have nothing to do with being healthy. We eat and drink what ever we choose, but that’s only temporary.

What does your daily life consists of? Are you exercising, lifting weights, consuming healthier meals, hydrating with water, plus getting plenty of sleep? That’s totally your decision.

One thing we all have in common is making excuses. That’s the easy way out. Why not change all that today? Shut your laptops, turn off the phones and televisions, and get your butt up.

Quit relying on your insurance program when it’s cheaper to make healthier decisions. I promise, you’ll start enjoying life again.

By David Tepera, July 29, 2026

Recently, I was conversing with one of our senior clients about life. Mary came to me expressing her disappointment and depression of the world around her.
I responded with let’s take a look at your current situation. First of all, we all have negative forces knocking at the door, but it’s up to us to open it or not.
Mary and her husband have been training at our gym for over five years, so we know them well. We’ve even met several times outside the gym for dinner.
I told her why not focus on all that’s good, so let’s go through the list. Mary started off slow by listing being retired, house and all vehicles paid off, plus financially stable.
Yes, Mary, that list is a reflection of years of hard work and sacrifices, but what’s the most important factor in all our lives? At first, she was a little confused until I asked about her health. It doesn’t matter how much money you have or luxury materials if you can’t enjoy them due to health problems.
For example; I actually train an elderly man who is a billionaire. He didn’t recover well from knee replacements due to not being compliant with rehab. Henry came to me for help expressing that he has all the money imaginable, but can’t enjoy it since his health is failing. Just know, over the years, I did help Henry get back in the game of life.
Now, back to Mary because she is just like a lot of us. We get caught up on the negatives, and not realizing good is all around.
“Mary, tell me about your current health condition since you’ve been weight training?” Her eyes lit up realizing her prescription list has dwindled, no more aches and pain, hiking on vacations, plus enjoying hobbies again.
I asked Mary “out of everything you shared with me, which topic mattered most?”. Of course, we all know that answer. She just needed a reminder.
How many of you have similarities with Mary? It’s too easy to look at the negatives in the world when goodness is right in front of us.
Listen, the only thing you can control is you. What you think about is a decision, so why not focus on the good.
I promise, there are more people than you think who love you. It’s my reminder to let you know it’s alright.

By David Tepera, July 21, 2026

I do admit, I hammer the message to exercise and lift weights, especially as we get older. This is because I receive multiple emails each week from people wanting to improve their lives, plus we see it every day in our gym.  

There are reasons why we are confused to find the best solution towards a healthier life.  

My personal opinion is that social media understands the algorithms of obese Americans, the elderly, plus those who are vulnerable, to take advantage and monopolize off the next easy heath fix.

Listen, I don’t care what your diet consists of, as long as you exercise and weight train weekly. Who cares that you’re caring extra weight. It’s no one’s business what foods or various drinks that you enjoy. This is your life, so quit worrying about other’s opinions.  

The biggest reason people quit exercising and living a healthier life is because results aren’t quick enough.

There are many factors that’s critical for life. The only difference is the importance of time. Let’s go through some average examples: Without oxygen, we only have minutes for survival. Generally, humans can only survive 3 to 7 days without water. We all love to eat, but without food – 2 to 6 weeks is all we get. Of course, according to your body fat content increases longevity. I’ll let you figure that one out.

Without all the factors listed, our bodies will deteriorate rapidly and life expectancy is shortened. So, how long can you live without exercise and weight training?

The answer is your entire life, but how’s that working out for you? What’s your prescription list, including blood pressure, diabetes and depression?

My point is people stop exercising and weight training because the results aren’t immediate. We tell all our new clients to give it at least five weeks for noticeable results. Everyone feels better within two weeks, but body changes start in the fifth week. This is when the quality-of-life soars beyond expectation.  

A good friend of mine owns one of the largest gyms in the area. He told me more people pay for monthly memberships than actually go to the gym. He doesn’t care because the money still rolls in from people’s laziness. How many of you fit in that category?

Don’t get mad at me. I’m only trying to wake you up to enjoy life to the fullest. Nothing happens overnight, so don’t give up and just love yourself because you are beautiful.

By David Tepera, July 12, 2026

As most of you know, at Ageless Muscle, even though we train people of all ages, we do cater to the older population, plus those with medical conditions. Our goal is to help people get stronger through weigh training to improve their quality of life.

Since most of our clients are dealing with past surgeries, or preparing for the next one, it’s a common question to discuss physical therapy versus weight training.

Just know, both are crucial to get back in the game of life. So, hopefully, I can help with a better understanding of their role and importance.

Primarily, physical therapy focuses on recovery from injury, surgery, pain or movement problems. The goal is to restore movement, function, balance and coordination through range of motion techniques and exercises. Physical therapy is the first line of treatment from injury or surgery. Therapists are licensed and covered by most insurances, but usually a limit on sessions according to your payor.

Weight training is designed to build muscle, increase strength, improve bone density, boost metabolism, plus help promote independence.

We help people post physical therapy, but also, prepare and strengthen their bodies for the up-coming surgery for a faster recovery.

Physical therapy gets you back to function. Weight training helps exceed function and stay strong for life.

If your surgeon writes a prescription for physical therapy, then do it. To keep it simple, I’m going to use knee replacements for my explanation.

During my medical career, I was involved in more than three thousand knee procedures and replacements. The patients who were compliant with rehab and therapy, regained full range of motion. Those who were lazy and used every excuse possible, developed scar tissue and lost full movement. Bottom line, quality of life went in reverse. Believe me, I’ve been in scar tissue removal and it’s not pretty, so do your rehab.

Here’s my point, physical therapy is a temporary treatment necessary for recovery, but weight training is lifetime for a quality of life. Hopefully, I helped understand the importance of each.

It doesn’t matter your circumstance, so get back in the game of life, quit whining, punch the Grim Reaper in the face, and take control.

By David Tepera, July 5, 2026

Throughout the years and still going strong today, we are warned about the harms of nature. Let’s think about this, why are we told nature is so destructive?

Who told you that the sun is our enemy? Of course, anything extreme can be harmful, but the sun has benefits that most experts won’t talk about because it’s free.

So, do you want to spend your money for someone to prescribe medication or obtain it the natural way? The sun gives us vitamin D, which is important for strong bones, healthy teeth, muscle function and boosting the immune system. Sun exposure increases serotonin that reduces stress, improves mood, and regulates sleep. Think about it, how many of you are prescribed medication that free natural sunlight can fix?

 Who told you that salt is bad for you. Yes, that’s sodium. Oh no, salt will destroy you. The only reason we have an issue with excessive sodium because we live in America. Natural sodium benefits help with fluid balance in our cells, supports nerve function, regulates blood pressure and much more.

But, why is sodium an issue? Because manufactures, restaurants and all processed foods have enormous amounts of salt to make their products tasty and profitable. That’s why sodium gets bad publicity. It’s not the salt’s fault, it’s about making money.

Listen, I know I’m being controversial, but your health is the most important concern for you. Don’t misunderstand me, my wife Tina and I enjoy going to our local restaurant once a week to indulge in chips, salsa, along with margaritas. But, the rest of the week usually consists of a health natural diet, so we don’t get suckered in the billion-dollar industry of prescriptions.

Who told you fat was the enemy? It is if all you consume is fast food and processed junk. Natural fat provides energy, supports brain health, helps absorbs vitamins, protects organs and much more. Some of the best natural fats are avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds.

I could write a whole book on this subject. I’m just trying to give you a sample of why nature offers more than you’ve been told.

My elders lived into their 90’s and never wore sunscreen, ate red meat and bacon daily, including farm eggs, with fresh veggies from the garden.

Now, this is only my personal perspective about the free benefits of nature. Just know, once your lifestyle prescribes medications, they got you forever and what’s that cost?

By David Tepera, June 29, 2026

Let me take you on a journey of health and fitness throughout the years. People have been looking for the next big fix since the industrial age.

How many of you ladies remember the Vibrating Belt Machine from the 1960’s? Just wrap that belt around your waist and hips to shake the fat and cellulite right off. Sorry, all that did was make your butt look silly.

Music and fashion moved to a new trend in the 1980’s. Jane Fonda took advantage of this by launching high energy aerobic exercise. It was fun, upbeat music, that required little equipment. We were in the VHS era, so people could use this in the comfort of their home without the intimidation of public gyms.

Also, in the 1980’s came the explosion of Richard Simmons. What I respected about his movement was that he made a connection with the common people. Simmons motivation was to promote health captured the hearts of all ages and sizes. His national audience helped people realize health was more important than appearance.

Now, here comes Suzanne Summers with the Thigh Master. Her popularity from the hit series “Threes Company” made her a household name. And, yep, she was a hottie. The Thigh Master company launched an aggressive campaign to sell millions, but sorry again, it did not burn fat. Those inner thighs stayed jiggy. Sadly, Summers battled breast cancer more than 23-years to pass in 2023 at the age of 76.

Now, let’s back up a little during the 1970’s when Arnold Schwarzenengger became the best body builder champion in the world from 1970 to 1975. He also made a comeback to win in 1980. Guess what special gadgets and machines he and all his competitors use? NONE! They stuck to the basic dumbbells, barbells, and selected cable machines to build the best bodies in the world.

Here’s my message, it’s great that there are an abundance of gyms and fitness centers popping up everywhere. You just need to find the one that fits your budget and location. Don’t let them sell you on the latest and greatest equipment because that’s only a sales pitch. Expensive machines perform the same as any others.

Bottom line, don’t get suckered into the next big fad, just get up and get out.

By David Tepera, June 22, 2026

It doesn’t matter age, status, or where you are in life, there’s always challenges. This could be personal, health, financial, relationships, or career.

What’s important is to fight and battle each day because in the end, good will prevail. As we age, health issues catch up with us. We all have our own battles, so what are you doing about yours? Doctors can prescribe a variety of medications, but it really comes down to your attitude. Are you just going to lay there and accept another bad day, or you going to get up and fight to create a good today? That is your choice. Let go of the “pity party” because no one cares. Come on- be a fighter. Turn bad news into good news.

It’s easy to get depressed over poor health habits, so make one change today. It’s as easy as walking around the block, choosing grilled over fried, or drinking water instead of sugary choices.

What’s ever waying on you has a silver lining. You woke up today with another opportunity to make it a good day. What are you thankful for?

When my children were young, and I faced difficult challenges, their sweet innocent faces made me realize it was a good day. Your children don’t know the battles of adulthood, and they shouldn’t. Side note; divorcing parents should work together for the kids and don’t use them to get at each other. It’s not the kid’s fault parents have issues, so keep them innocent and feel loved.

Now, what happened today that doesn’t seem so good? Did you wake up late, the boss was in a bad mood, the whiny coworker was complaining again, or you fill in the blank?

Guess what? It can all become a good day with a smile. No matter what life throws at you, just smile back and say “I got this”. One of Tina and I’s sayings when the day becomes a struggle is “the sun comes up and the sun goes down”. This refers to all challenges will end, but at least we have each other.

Come on, this is the day where you see the good surrounding you. All you have to do is recognize it. You’re living another day and that’s a lot to be thankful for.

I already know you found good in today because you read my column. Yep!