By David Tepera, September 29, 2021

It’s been quite an interesting year for me. I had a few friends and family members pass away, including my father and a son. Just know, none were COVID related.

I refer to these experiences as mental and emotional pains. As much as my heart aches, I found a way to allow myself to accept this part of life and move forward.

Also, I’ve been dealing with chronic lower back pain for more than a year. Most mornings start off debilitating, and I can barely walk throughout the house. I’ve been taking over-the-counter pain meds and lubing up with a variety of pain creams. I refer to this experience as physical pain.

Recently, I started seeking medical attention because I’m competing at the end of October and need to be at the top of my game. At 60 years old, I’m quite sure I’ll be the oldest competitor.

Alright, by now, you’re thinking, “OK, David, we all have the same pains, so what’s your point?”

I’ve come to the position in life where I appreciate every day and everyone in my life. I’ve never had this much love in my heart for the people I’m surrounded by. I’m a very lucky man.

Here’s the point; I was explaining to Tina that I welcome all the mental and physical pain I had or have in my life. This is all because at the same time, I get to feel loved, experience victories and make people smile every day.

So you know, besides Tina, I get to see my adult children every day. Even though Dylan is financially independent and has his own apartment, we own a family business, so we get to hug and say how much we love each other throughout the day.

Our 20-year-old daughter lives with us, including college classes and working. We get the same wonderful experience of showing our love each day.

I know that’s a lot of personal information about me, but I’m trying to make you think and reflect on your own life. We can’t escape tragedy and death. As we get older, it seems to chase us down.

Yes, one day we will all die and the pain will go away. But, that’s why we must welcome the pain. It’s God’s way of letting you know to stay in the fight. This world can knock you down, but it can’t knock you out. Stay strong and recognize the love that surrounds you. Every day is a blessing.

By David Tepera, September 22, 2021

One of the philosophies Tina and I created to remind ourselves every so often is, “We need an interception.” The message behind this interception is to change our lives.

The interception philosophy came from my perception of J.J. Watt’s claim to fame.

Watt was drafted to the Houston Texans for the 2011 season. He received plenty of “boos” from people for being picked in the first round.

Well, Watt started all 16 games and had an amazing year helping the Texans make the playoffs for the first time in franchise history. He was named Texans Team Rookie of the Year, along with many other pro football rookie teams and awards.

But, what changed Watt’s life was the interception for a touchdown during the playoffs against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Now, the whole country knew who Watt was. He had guest appearances on multiple late-night television shows, starred in many commercials and became the “golden boy” of the National Football League. Everyone wanted to touch Watt and be affiliated with him.

Look, your version of Watt’s success might be different from mine, but I’m only sharing my personal perspective.

To me, it was amazing how one interception for a touchdown can change a person’s life. And, through this, is why Tina and I look and create opportunities to make an interception.

We are extremely blessed and fortunate to have a booming business, but we are wanting to take it to another level to help more people. We are constantly expanding our value and knowledge through social media, guest speaking, and, of course, as a columnist for The Daily News.

Where are you at in life? Are you ready to take it to another level? How can you expose yourself and be noticed? Find out who needs your services and expert knowledge, then set up a meeting. Don’t wait to be asked. It’s time to be aggressive and force the interception.

Don’t just grab the ball, but tuck it tight and start breaking tackles. There’s no one who can stop you from success. When you keep digging your feet with a strong stride, defenders will keep bouncing off.

It will be you crossing the goal line, including showing off with a hard spike — letting everyone know that this is your day, your time and only fools can try to stop you.

Now, get out in this game of life and make that interception to change your life.

By David Tepera, September 15, 2021

Recently, I was training one of my golf enthusiast clients. Scott and his good friend Boyd frequent different golf courses each week.

An interesting conversation with Scott led to us agreeing about the comparisons of golf and life. When you’re having a challenging day of golf, it takes extra energy and effort to get back in line. It’s like hooking or slicing the ball, so now you’ve got to dig through the roughage, find the ball and fight your way back to the fairway.

If this continues throughout the game, by the time you finish 18 holes, you’re drained and worn out for the rest of day.

How many of you start your day by pushing the snooze button way too many times? Your first decision of the day made you chase your tail all morning because you’re running late.

Now, you’ve wakened in a bad mood and are stressing everyone else in the house. If you have young school-aged children, you’re probably screaming at them to “get a move on” because of your decision to hit the snooze button. What type of successful day did you just set your children up for?

I’m sure by now, you’re in such a hurry that you’ve stubbed your toe, which made your mood worse. You’re running late to work and realize you’re almost out of gas. You can’t be late to the meeting because you were late last time. Just like yesterday, the day has started off a disaster.

So, does this sound like a typical morning for some of you? Did you shank the ball into the rough and trees, then spent the rest of day trying to get back on the fairway?

Let’s think about a day of golf where you get in the zone. Each drive is down the fairway, chip shots are landing on the green, along with a two-putt. The day is running smooth and easy with less energy. You’re in the best mood possible and showering people you meet with kindness.

Starting tomorrow, no more hitting the snooze button. Get to bed a little earlier and wake your children with love. Let them know this is the best day possible, and when they come home, have them share something exciting and fun they experienced.

Let today be the start of a new beginning. Learn to straighten your club, take a breath and swing with a smooth stroke. No matter where it lies, take your time and make your way back to the fairway because golf is similar to life. Let’s shoot a 72 today.

By David Tepera, September 8, 2021

There’s no secret, we are all afraid to show our weaknesses and failures. We only want people to know us for successes. This is the main reason “doubt” will kill your dreams.

Let me tell you, as I’ve become older, I truly don’t care what other people think or say of me. Throughout my years, I’ve matured into a caring compassionate man who cares for every human and animal on this planet. So, I can only be the best of me and not for others.

Through many guest speeches and writings, I’ve corresponded with countless people about being scared to chase their dreams. You must not doubt your dreams because others will want you to fail. When you fail, people around you will feel better about themselves because they didn’t have the drive to give it a go. And, when you do succeed, they’ll make excuses about themselves, including you getting a lucky break. Just keep pushing forward because this is your life.

Look, we’ve all wished we’d had asked the girl or guy, stand up to the bully, pursued the promotion, started our own business, or continued exercising and dieting. Don’t worry about past mistakes and doubting decisions because those gave you experiences to be better.

Being in health and fitness, we have many older people come to us who think it’s impossible to add muscle and get back in shape. We teach them a weight training formula and their quality-of-life changes forever.

Let’s come to reality, I don’t care how old, broke, overweight and so-on you are. Why are you still doubting yourself? Why haven’t you taken the leap and just go for it? Quit making excuses and listening to others who want you to fail.

Today is a different day. There is nothing that is going to stand in your way to keep from chasing dreams. You can completely change your life at this very moment because you want it.

Shout to the heavens “this is my day and I’m going to kick some serious butt”. No one or anything can stop you or stand in your way because you control your destiny.  

Put your helmet on and bust through any barriers that dare to stand in front of you. Today, life will change forever because you’re never going to doubt yourself again, plus you’re not afraid of failure. Now, look out and get out of my way.

By David Tepera, September 1, 2021

There’s no secret that with age comes wisdom.

I was the oldest father of my children’s friends as they were growing up. I told them many times that they were fortunate to learn through my life’s experiences — unlike their brother Dustin, who was 10 years older. Dustin was fortunate to have the younger and more energetic dad, but less wise.

What’s truly important is we should relive the past — not to judge or dwell, but to learn and grow.

Yes, we’ve all made plenty of life-altering mistakes. I know it’s hard to let go and feel depressed about certain actions or words said to others. But don’t let those experiences define you. They must be lessons to help grow and become a better person.

Most of us would love to go back in time and correct some serious mistakes, but it won’t happen. Believe me, there was a time in past that the dumbest person I knew was me. I would mentally beat myself up for even the littlest of mistakes.

It took a few tragedies to made me realize that I must learn and grow from all experiences of life. This is part of my journey that God laid out for me, and I’m going to use it to help others.

What past mistakes changed your life? Do you still dwell on it or have you learned from it? Sometimes people say and do things we don’t agree with, but who are you to judge them? They have different life experiences than you, so let them be.

I will be honest that as a family of professional athletes, and owning a fitness center, we do struggle accepting the obesity rate in America. We’re humbled changing people’s lives, but the growing numbers are their own pandemic.

How many diets have you failed in the past? What have you learned from them, or are you jumping on the next trend because it’s all over social media?

The lesson of dieting is all about portion control. You can eat anything you want just keep portions under your body type. If you want to lose weight, start cutting portions sizes. I don’t care what unhealthy foods you’re eating, throw out half the fries, take the top bun off the burger and order a small soda instead of the jumbo water tower.

Look, let’s get back to reality. What made you a better person because of past lessons? Why are you a kinder and more gentle person to be associated with?

I hope it’s because you know longer judge and dwell, and only to learn and grow.

By David Tepera, August 25, 2021

Becoming successful isn’t random or luck. It’s a mindset. Your mind has the power to turn dreams into reality.

It’s OK to sit around and daydream about certain goals. But you can’t just dream about the outcome. You must put a plan in place to get there.

People aren’t successful by hanging out where money falls into their lap. Of course, some people are fortunate enough to be born into wealthy resources, but if you’re like me, you have to aggressively go after it.

Where’s your work ethic? How bad do you want to improve your life? Don’t accept a mediocre life by flying under the radar. Go full throttle after your passion because success and money will follow.

What’s your definition of success? It can be a variety of accomplishments. I feel successful as a parent because my children are good and kind to all people, plus they are hard workers. My adult children don’t ask for a handout because they put a hand in.

Are you in a successful relationship? Do you both respect and trust each other and treat each other as so? Be honest, can you leave your phone lying around or do you have to keep it in your pocket or purse? I’m not saying spouses should go through each other’s phone, but what are you hiding?

I hope you’re as lucky as I because Tina is my best friend and business partner. We are literally together all day almost seven days a week. We make a dynamic couple, and people tell us as well.

If money is your definition of success, what’s your business plan and model? You can’t look for the quick scheme because you’ll lose in the end. The goal should be to make money and keep the residuals coming. Don’t cut corners or step on people. Again, you’ll lose in the end.

Through 20 years in the medical corporate world, I witnessed a few people trying to make a quick buck. Yes, at first money came abundantly, but they not only lost it in the end, but they lost their reputation along the way. No doctors or hospitals could trust them.

Look, today it’s time to quit daydreaming and wishing. You’re going to write down your wanted successes and put a plan in place. Get off the couch, quit wasting time on social media and negative news outlets and take control of life. Because remember, success doesn’t come to you, you go get it.

By David Tepera, August 19, 2021

Over the past year, we’ve constantly heard about people with underlying health conditions. With today’s current situation, maintaining good health can save your life.

We already know living an unhealthy lifestyle will not only trim years off your life, but there’s no quality either. You’re probably just sitting around most of the time and stuffing yourself with processed or fried foods. I tell people, if it comes in a wrapper or a box, it’s probably not good for you.

Look, I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know. I’m not judging people for never exercising or eating properly. To me, you can choose what you want to do or put into your body.

Every one of us makes choices all day long that affect our health. What’s the first choice of food this morning? Was it last night’s leftover fast food or did you cook a balanced breakfast? In other words, did you put premium gas in your tank to start your day or was it another tank of sluggish grease?

Be honest, when’s the last time you sweated during exercise? I know it’s hot these days, so walking to the mailbox doesn’t count.

What’s preventing you from exercising today? Get up a little earlier and stroll through the neighborhood. Tina and I walk the dogs together on weekend mornings. We observe plenty of elderly people enjoying the morning stroll.

If you’re reading this article, plus you have underlying health conditions, then what small changes are you going to make today? Quit with excuses. I’m sure you have a long list of reasons why you’re unhealthy that everyone has heard a thousand times.

Why not flip your thinking and start listing reasons why you’re going to make changes?

Today you’re going to buy fruits, vegetables, low-fat meats, fish, eggs, oatmeal, rice and potatoes. What you’re not going to buy is pasta, bread, dairy or sugar. Don’t misunderstand me, there’s a place for almost all foods, but today there’s not.

Take a walk around the block, also lay on your bed face up and perform flutter kicks to strengthen your core.

Really, it all comes down to discipline or lack of it. Don’t be in the category of “underlying health conditions.” Why are you allowing yourself to get sick? Not anymore because today you’re going to step up your game, slap your old self away and take back control of your health.

By David Tepera, August 11, 2021

One important concept we teach to our clients is how small changes can enhance a workout — for example, shortening the range of motion to prevent injury, changing hand grips to target muscles better, not locking knees when performing leg presses and how to get in and out of machines properly.

Bottom line, it’s the little things that make the difference.

What are the little things that you’re doing to make life better? When at work, do you find extra work to separate yourself from other co-workers? If you’re in the warehouse, do you step out of your work description by helping to organize inventory? Do you find extra tasks without asking for it? Do you get to work before and leave after your supervisor? This alone gets a lot of positive attention.

What about relationships? Do you open doors and treat your significant other with total respect, especially in public? I tell Tina it’s an honor for me to open doors for her.

What about chores around the house? Do you help clean, cook, do laundry and so on? If not, why not? Even if you both agree on specific sets of chores, why not help the other sometimes?

Here’s one for you: Next time your spouse takes a shower, throw their towel into the dryer. When they’re finished, there’s a warm towel to dry off with. I promise, this will be appreciated.

Do you respond to people with “sir and ma’am?” For some reason, I feel parents aren’t teaching children to respect elders as we were once taught. My children learned proper life etiquette early on, and I’m fortunate to observe them as adults still practice respect toward others.

As you go through your life today, take notice of the little things you do to make a difference. How courteous are you toward others? Do you carry yourself with pride and produce a genuine smile, or do you have that smug look on your face because you think you’re better than others?

Now, let’s get back to healthiness. What little thing are you going to personally accomplish today to be healthier? Take a walk around the block, use that piece of exercise equipment that’s been collecting dust in your house or don’t eat dessert tonight.

Try to do something positive today because you’ll be shocked how big the little things are.

By David Tepera, August 4, 2021

We have an elderly rescue dog that’s been in the family for more than 10 years. Because of his age, Baily has developed a few physical and digestive problems. Sometimes these symptoms last a few days, but just when we think Baily’s at his end — he rallies.

Baily goes on a walk every morning, and almost every time, he starts sprinting like a young pup again. You’d never know he’s a senior dog from the way he tries to chase squirrels. To us, it’s Baily’s way of letting us know he’s not ready to give up, yet. And for those of you who might worry, yes, he’s on a leash.

Baily’s situation made me take a closer look at my elderly clients. They come to us with broken parts but not broken determination. After a period of time, they all rally to come back stronger and better, along with more energy.

Yes, we’ll slow down and develop aches and pains, but this is our wake-up call to get back up and rally. Dig deep into your mindset to get up and bounce back into this world. Quit letting time fly by you. Don’t sit there and watch the clock all day. Quit the addiction of watching TV and favorite shows. These are times when you could rally and be exercising.

How about you? Do you think you’re too old, too broke or too ugly? It’s time to throw those negative self-destructive attitudes away. There are no more excuses because today you’re going to start a personal rally.

If you’re confined to a wheelchair, grab some cans of food to use as dumbbells. Lift them over your head, to the side and in front of you. Get your shoulders and arms stronger so you can rally toward a better quality of life. If you can, strap some ankle weights around your legs and perform raises, circles and side to sides. Make your legs stronger so you can rally to start standing and taking steps.

It doesn’t matter your age or circumstances. Get your game face on and rally toward a better life. Let people know you’re not going to accept withering away. No, you’re going to rally and take back your life.

So, congratulations, because starting today, you’re changing your life and the rally cry begins.

By David Tepera, July 28, 2021

Well, I’ll turn the “big 6-0” this week. I tried to prepare myself over the last year, realizing it will be a new era. I do agree with my children that 60s is the beginning of sounding old, but you wouldn’t know it if you met me.

I’ve given many speeches, and I tell people that you can’t really control what happens to your body from the neck up, but you have total control from the neck down. Of course, I’m eliminating plastic surgery. Just know, I do support any surgery that gives you confidence.

For me, my hair is thinning, extra wrinkles on my forehead and face, plus the nose seems to keep growing. Yep, the 60s have settled on my face, so I’m trying different potions and lotions.

Now, for what I can control. I’m on a consistent weight lifting and diet program. Tina and I lift weights five days a week — making sure we hit every muscle group. We stay on a strict healthy diet that requires us to eat six to seven meals per day. Right now, we take weekends off unless we are two months from competing.

We’ve been on this routine for years, giving us incredible energy, plus we make a striking couple. It’s common for people to approach us and start asking questions.

Yes, my skin is sagging in some areas with varicose veins, along with aging hands, but I’m not slowing down and neither should you.

Just know that I am not alone. I train from 10 to 11 clients daily. They are all older than I am, with many up into their 70s. It’s quite remarkable to observe their muscles growing, aches and pains disappearing, including increased energy levels. Bottom line — they’ve separated themselves from their peers.

I will say my mail is a reflection of my age. For some reason, it consists of marketing for hearing aids, dentures, assisted living and so forth. I just laugh as it falls into the trash can.

I’m not ready to throw in the towel and accept age as a reason to slow down. Of course, I’m not as fast as I used to be, but I give my best each day to be a better person.

So, what’s your age and excuse? Do you ever say to yourself, “I’m old now, so I’m just going to sit here and let you guys have fun.”? I don’t think so. Do whatever pleases you and don’t worry what others think because remember — it’s a mindset, not a number.