By David Tepera, July2, 2025

I’ll be turning 64-years of age soon, and I’ve been weight training for almost 40 of those years. I guarantee, I’ve made plenty of mistakes along that journey. Besides training mistakes, this includes diet and supplements.

When I first started lifting, I didn’t understand proper form and technique. I was in my 20’s, so my body was invincible. Every once in a while, I’d tweak a muscle or joint, but would bounce back relatively quick. I will say, I was surprised how much my body responded to a steady lifting program. The compliments from other people was addictive because I was a skinny kid all the way through high school.

Okay, throughout the younger years, I was lifting way too heavy and frequently. The problem with most young men, especially back in the day, is that they want to be king of the gym. Guys are always sizing each other up to be the biggest and strongest. Today, it’s comical to me because grown men can be so immature. Right ladies?

Now, ladies you don’t get a free pass out of this. Fellas, in case you haven’t caught on, when women get all dressed up for a date or an event, they don’t do it to impress you. Nope, women try to out do all the other gals in the room. Women size each other up just like men do in the weight room. Why do you think women buy expensive clothes, purses and accessories? Men have no idea how much anything you’re wearing costs. But, all the ladies in the room do.

Alright, sorry, I always get off track from my message.

I’ve written about this plenty of times before, but at any age, weight training will change your life. For all the elders, I know box gyms can be intimidating, but you need to find a gym close to you that’s comfortable. I promise, elderly people get respect in all gyms. Don’t be afraid to ask anyone how to use a piece of equipment. People will feel honored to help you.

What I learned over the years of training is understanding the different hand grips and range of motion to reduce any chance of injury.

Also, throughout my journey, I got suckered into trying all kinds of supplements. For me, it was a big waste of money. When I was competing, I received all my nutrition needs through a healthy diet, not all the internet gimmicks.

Anyway, there’s so much more to understanding weight lifting, but I encourage everyone at any age to get started. Please, reach out to me for any questions. We give free advice to people all over the country.