By David Tepera, December 3, 2025

I’ve written many articles and given advice all over the country about the importance of exercise and weight training. What I’ve learned over the past 40 years of training is that the gym will never lie to you.

So, what am I referring too? What are you trying to accomplish each time you enter the gym? You will only receive benefits from the effort put in. If you’re trying to get stronger, are you progressing to heavier weights, or just staying with the lighter ones? That’s your choice.

The dumbbell rack doesn’t care which set you pick up. Those little weights don’t say “hey, come lift me, I’ll make you stronger”. Nope, weights will never lie to you, so quit lying to yourself.

When utilizing cardio equipment to lose weight and improve health, are sweating with an increased heart rate? Or, just having a full conversation on your phone. Just know, that’s irritating to the others exercising around you. You need to learn gym etiquette and get off your phone because obviously, you’re not accomplishing anything. You get what you put in.

For example; to get the most out of cardio, you should strive for 20 – 40 minutes at a challenging speed. Once you get to 20 minutes, the body will start burning fat cells, but when you hit 40 minutes, it’s possible the body will go into a catabolic state which means it will start burning muscle. There’s much more science to it, but I don’t want to get too deep. So, stay within the time frame I’ve given you.

Now, come on, it’s time to take back health and step your game up. Find a local gym that’s affordable, plus meets your standards. Just know, all those in the elderly category, Medicare offers Senior Sneakers programs to pay for your gym membership.

I don’t care what your age or medical condition, it’s a must to begin a weight training program.

Remember, the gym doesn’t care if you come or not. Your body only responds to the forces you put it through. You can either hang out on the recliner and make excuses, or push yourself to get healthier.

There might be those around you that tell you what you want to hear, but the gym will never lie to you.