By David Tepera, May 29, 2019

This past weekend, we all celebrated the courage of countless soldiers from the past to modern day. This was a special day for my family for we lost my oldest son Specialist Dustin Ray Tepera, who served in Iraq.

I’m sure about every person knows or has relatives who served or are serving in this great nation.

There are many days I walk into the gym thinking how fortunate I am to be free to choose things I love to do. The freedom of choice to be productive or not, occupation, religion and political views.

Think about it, your current status is from all the choices you’ve created. But, how is this so because no one made those decisions for you?

We must take this time to celebrate those who’ve lost their lives and are currently laying their lives on the line for all of us.

Whenever I see someone acting like an idiot, I comfort myself knowing that soldiers like Dustin allowed you to be that way. You just become spoiled to the best nation in the world and don’t recognize the opportunities before you.

Years ago, when I realized that my destiny was totally up to me, I started the journey to not only be a role model for my kids but to change all those around me. I recognize that my time on earth will one day come to an end. How will I be remembered?

My dad created a strong sense of pride in the Tepera name through my sister Karen and I. It was up to us to continue our legacy of strong work ethic and respect for all.

If you’re struggling with your own identity, make today your journey to become a better person and reach out to help others. You get to create your own memorial. How will people remember you? Hopefully, as someone that changed lives and could be counted on in all aspects of life.

So, remember, next time you see a soldier or veteran, shake hands and thank them for keeping you free. I promise, that will be a memory both of you will never forget.

By David Tepera, May 23, 2019

I once read, “if you think I’m expensive, hire an amateur and see what that’ll cost you.” I believe we can all relate to that statement from multitudes of past experiences.

Being in the health and fitness industry, many of our clients come to us from bad experiences with other trainers.

Now, don’t get me wrong, there are plenty of great trainers in our local area, just find the right fit for your goals.

A good example is from our 58-year-old client, Tom. He went to multiple training gyms and observed the different exercise programs, training styles and personal traits of trainers.

You see, Tom had a shoulder issue, along with biceps and meniscal repair. He is not one to be jumping on boxes, lifting weights on balancing objects and so forth. Which, all this led him to our Ageless Muscle program.

So, really, my question to you “what is your worth?” It’s similar to buying a house. To one person, a particular house is the exact fit for the family. To another, the house could be too small, too big or just the wrong neighborhood and school district.

For the right-fit person, this house is worth all its value. If not, the house is worthless. Make sense?

Now, you must ask yourself “am I deserving of my paycheck, do I give full effort in practice, as a parent, husband, friend or co-worker?”

How are you as a person? Do you treat others with respect, do you contribute to society, do you put a hand in or only a hand-out? We must answer these questions honestly about ourselves.

Maybe, you’re content with your current status and would rather fly below the radar screen. Just know, you’ll always be stuck in that same position with no growth, while everyone else is flying by you towards success.

Hopefully, today is a wake-up call. It’s time to take pride in yourself, break the bad habits, change your social circle and project the real person hiding inside you.

We all possess goodness. It’s time to make it part of your daily character. Believe me, the world will beautify before your eyes. You’ll see the beauty in others and realize how awesome you truly are.

So, take a hard look in the mirror and ask yourself “What is my worth?”

By David Tepera, May 17, 2019

One of the biggest rewards from our business is the thrill from clients as they reach weight training goals. Everyone loses fat, but the muscle size is exciting.

A common statement we hear “I know my muscles are getting bigger, but these workouts are getting harder.” My response, “just because you get stronger, doesn’t mean it gets easier; it only gets better.”

If you put some thought into it, weight training is very similar to life. You must keep pushing forward for continual growth. If you don’t, you’ll plateau, get stuck and stop growing. Success doesn’t come easy, but drive and desire will get you there.

When you’re attending school, each semester’s courses get a little more challenging, but your knowledge will continue to expand.

Those of you who’ve experienced martial arts, with each belt level, techniques and training become more advanced. Of course, the ultimate goal is to accomplish a black belt.

How about marriage? After the honeymoon’s over, each year can become more challenging, especially when you have children. But, maturity, growth and love should strengthen relationships. Recognize when you need to step up your game and appreciate each other’s efforts.

One of the many benefits of weight training is the building of confidence. We get to witness our clients exceeding in other areas of their life.

Forty-eight-year-old Mark is training to compete in his first physique competition. Another client, suffering from PTSD, is now interacting with the world, and has started the process to get her realtor’s license.

Hopefully, at this moment, you’re reviewing your own life. No matter your current situation, if you’re not growing, you’re falling. Don’t let this world pass you by. You’re never too old to grow. The majority of our client base is from mid 40s to 70s, and they are all creating new paths of success.

Whatever your circumstances may be today, keep your head up and just grind it out. Because, just like weight training, as in life, it might seem harder, but it’s really only getting better.

By David Tepera, May 1, 2019

One of the many lessons from youth sports is teaching kids about teamwork. If you’ve ever watched a little kid’s soccer game, it’s typically 20 kids bundled together trying to kick a ball. But, there’s always that one kid who has more skills than others who scores all the points.

When I coached my children’s youth soccer teams, I would set up cones on the practice field with position boundaries. They were only allowed to play within those cones. From this, each player learned the importance of teamwork in order to pass the ball down the field.

In all sports, throughout each season, as our children get older, they will develop better skills for specific positions. Each one of those positions requires full effort in order to maximize teamwork.

We’ve all heard “a chain is only as strong as the weakest link.” Of course, this relates to not only sports, but other aspects of our lives.

Which department of your company is slowing progress? Who is the salesperson not hitting their numbers? Which spouse is not holding up to their commitment of a partnership? As you can see, the list is endless, but hopefully, you’re not the reason.

Are you the person we can count on? Do I want you in the fox hole with me? Does the team know you’ll hit your blocking assignments in order to score?

This also pertains to leadership skills. Do you lead with determination, respect and integrity? True leaders lift people up, not put them down. When you can build a winning mindset of others, it will create an exciting environment to work.

I know a company who spent an enormous amount of money to train 32 sales people for an intricate surgical device. But, the new VP of Sales started treating everyone from a dictator perspective, so quickly, most left to work for competitors.

Henry Ford was one of the wealthiest businessmen of his time. One of his famous quotes is “if everyone is moving together, then success takes care of itself.”

Now, today is your decision to step up your game, create success through teamwork and go out in this world to prove you’re the one we can count on.

By David Tepera, April 23, 2019T

In just about every sport, players must learn to pivot in order to maintain momentum. If not, they’ll come to a complete stop, tackled, or worse — lose possession of the ball.

It’s exciting to watch someone with good pivoting skills work their way down the field, court or ice. We all get a big kick from watching opponents fall on their face.

One example to hear commentators describe a skilled player’s pivoting abilities is “that running back can spin on a dime.”

What we must understand is that life is a constant pivot. Your current status is from the direction you pivoted with each and every decision.

Let’s think about some life-altering pivots. Many of us have faced unemployment, death of a loved one, divorce, bankruptcy and many other challenging experiences that can cause depression. Did you curl up in the fetal position or choose to make yourself stronger? Remember, you’re still here and there’s a better life waiting on you. Now, get out there and find it.

Just like those skilled players who pivot to keep momentum, you’ve got to keep pushing forward.

Of course, there’s wonderful pivoting moments as well. You’ve crossed paths with your future spouse, landed the job, had your first child and so on.

Just like sports, the more you pivot, the better you get at it, plus you’ll eventually win the game. Make sense?

We launched our business in July of 2018 with hopes of surviving through the end of year. Out of nowhere, I landed an opportunity to speak on a national radio show, and it catapulted us into the spotlight. Ageless Muscle was being sought out by people across the country needing our services. This isn’t luck. It’s keeping an open mind, positive thoughts, and continuing momentum by not being scared to pivot.

The whole point of my testimony is for you to realize that pivoting is your friend. When facing adversity, don’t let it sack you. It’s your moment of quick thinking to pivot and leave it in the dust.

Listen, you’re in charge of every thought and action you make or create. Don’t let negative situations or others hold you back. You’re the one carrying the ball of success. Today, you’re on a mission to win the game of life. All you need to do is make one strong pivot.

By David Tepera, April 16, 2019

We’re all privileged to live in a country where we can determine our own destiny. You have the freedom of choice to better yourself or waste another day.

I’m positive that everyone has stories of relatives who became successful through hard work and dedication. And, hopefully, you’re one of them. If not, become it.

Throughout the years, as I’m getting older, I’ve found the passion to be productive each and every day. Yes, we need time off to recharge, but constant goal setting is a must.

My time on earth is closing in. I’ve explained to my kids that at the age of 57, I’m closer to death than from birth.

Recently, I ran into an old friend who retired from a long public service career with the sheriff’s department. Even though life is much simpler, Bill has chosen to focus on his health.

During our conversation, as he asked for guidance, I explained the importance of switching his thought process. Bill, like many others, see the gym as a source of punishment.

For me, every time I walk into the gym, I remind myself how much it’s a privilege and freedom to lift weights. No one is telling me what to do and where to go. It’s completely my choice to better myself.

Tina and I put on our headphones, train together, and throw some serious metal around. We rarely talk because we use sign language as a source of gym communication.

How about you? Are you dreading going to work because it makes you miserable, plus not making enough income?

Well, guess what? You have the privilege of making an immediate change by starting the process to better yourself. The economy is booming and there’s plenty of jobs available.

Maybe, you’re in a destructive relationship. If needed, there’s resources to help you. Otherwise, take back your life because it’s your privilege.

Does church seem like a punishment because of wasting a Sunday? Then, you need to search for another religion or church. Seeking a higher power can cleanse our minds and deepen our souls.

Listen, the only reason life feels like a punishment is through your constant thoughts and actions.

Today, you’ll take on a new attitude and realize you have the privilege to make your life and those around you a much better place.

By David Tepera, April 9, 2019

One lesson taught with each of my clients is about control. While lifting weights, you must learn to control the weight and not let the weight control you. It’s the only way to prevent injury.

I sometimes cringe while watching people throw weights around, swinging wildly with cables, and using bad posture while bouncing heavy barbells. It’s really a dangerous situation.

Other factors to consider for control are effort, behavior and actions. This past week, during one of my training sessions, I put each client through an exhausting quadricep workout within the first 15 minutes. My goal was to see how they would respond during the remaining time of training.

Not surprised, and felt very pleased, that each client took control of their destiny by strengthening their behavior, increasing effort and projected into full-blown action. They’ve come to realize that results will only happen when they embrace “control.”

Of course, this lesson is for all of us. How do you respond to adversity? It’s easy to be kind and loving when you’re having a good day. But, how do you treat others when life is throwing curve balls?

Are you familiar with the saying “kick the cat?” It’s where the CEO of a company is upset that he hasn’t received an important paper. He yells and screams at his regional manager, who then yells and screams at his secretary to get it pronto. The secretary never finds the paper and proceeds to yell at the delivery boy. Once the delivery boy gets home, his cat crossed his path and gets kicked. Now, this cat did absolutely nothing, but was the receiving end of a long line of people who couldn’t control their behavior and actions.

Of course, not a true story, but you get my point. Just because you’re having a bad day, doesn’t mean you need to make others have one, too.

Remember, we all have complete control of our behavior. It takes maturity and passion to develop a positive attitude. And, through this, your efforts and actions will set the path to control your destiny.

By David Tepera, April 2, 2019

According to the level of sport, there’s always some type of playbook necessary to improve mental and physical skills for players.

During the 1990s, while an assistant football coach at La Marque High School, we had scout teams attend games of the opponents. Every Sunday afternoon, all the coaches would get together, break down film, and go over scouting reports.

It was these reports that developed our playbook to prepare for next Friday’s game. We would spend all week preparing offensive and defensive players for every statistical scenario possible of the opponent’s tendencies based on the scouting reports.

Of course, if you were around during the 1990s, the mastermind of Coach Alan Weddell took all of us to five consecutive state championship runs.

For those of you who attend or watch football games, those laminated cards the coaches are holding have every opponent scenario possible so that decisions can be made in an instant. Yes, that’s the gameday playbook.

Now, let’s think about our lives. Do you have a written plan for success, or are you just punching the clock each day to ride below the radar with no ambition?

All successful people have a playbook for goals. This could be for education, marriage, occupational, business, sports and of course, diet and exercise.

Before we start each kinesiology program for clients, we have them fill out forms listing all medical conditions, including health and fitness goals. After their first consultation, we put together a playbook for success.

Now remember, there’s lots of obstacles we all encounter each day when trying to achieve our goals. That’s the importance of a playbook. We must prepare for every scenario possible to prevent from being sacked.

You might be on the goal line of success, but a family emergency occurs which takes precedence. Just use a timeout to take care of urgency, then proceed to score a touchdown and win the battle.

One of my clients was on pace to get down to 15 percent body fat by the end of April, but her mother fell and broke her hip. So, my client had to travel out-of-state to care for her for a few weeks.

This was my client’s “timeout” because all training came to an abrupt halt. The good news is that mom is ok and my client is back on track.

So now, it’s time to pull out a pencil and paper to start putting your playbook together. Write out everything you want to accomplish, laminate the paper and place it on your refrigerator.

This is your day to start the journey of winning because you have a playbook of success.

By David Tepera, March 20, 2019

For those of you who are new to my column, Tina and I are the oldest professional physique champions in Galveston County. During the past 3 years, I’ve competed in a total of seven competitions.

Just know, in the body building world, that’s considered a lot of shows because the extreme training and diet can take its toll on the body. Besides my son Dylan, Tina and I have decided to take this year off to focus on our growing business, but as always, will continue to lift weights and eat healthy.

People are usually fascinated when I explain the last week of dieting heading into a show. So, here’s a peek inside our world.

Most body building competitions are scheduled on Saturdays. Your body type and competitive category will determine how many weeks out extreme dieting is needed. For us, we stay relatively lean all year, so we don’t have to panic as we strip fat heading into a show.

On days 7 and 6, we drink up to two gallons of water, along with sodium and carb loading — each day after, dropping a half-gallon, with continual reduction of sodium and carbs.

On Friday, the day before the show, we are down to only half-gallon of water and two days without carbs. Believe me, by Friday night, we look horrible. Our muscle bellies are flat, body fat hovers around 5-7 percent, to which our skin shrink wraps around the body. You can see every muscle fiber and veins poking through our skin.

But here’s the kicker, the night before the show, we eat a large steak, baked potato, green veggies and a glass of red wine. Our bodies will absorb every nutrient, so by Saturday morning, our muscles are fully loaded, along with a small waist line.

We look absolutely amazing, and it’s a beautiful, freaky sight to look at. Check out our website Ageless-Muscle.com for competition pictures.

Now, Saturday is game day, so we can only sip water infrequently throughout the day. There are two shows — one in the morning, and the winners in the evening. We have been fortunate to always be in the winners’ bracket.

The only time we eat on Saturday is 15 minutes before we walk on stage. We eat a small potato, rice cake or a spoon full of rice. Then, chase it with raw honey, and start pumping up with dumbbells or stretch bands. This will give your muscles a strong pump to dial-in their fullest.

Believe me, by Saturday night, our energy is completely depleted, and it takes every ounce of determination to squeeze out an exhausting posing routine.

So, as you can see, it’s not easy to be a professional physique champion. The discipline is off the charts. Next time you decide to start dieting, get in the zone and design your own crunch week.

By David Tepera, March 16, 2019

Seventeen years ago, when I was 40, I trained and ran the Houston marathon. Since that time, plus due to age, I stopped running because pounding on the pavement can be damaging to your joints. My choice of outside exercise is riding my bicycle.

One of the many lessons while riding is to keep momentum. If you don’t continue peddling, you’d eventually fall down.

Each time I go for an adventure on my bike, I remind myself that the experience is similar to life. No matter what road block I encounter, I must find a way to keep moving.

Even today, I still have many dreams with hopes of our business to continue striving. To take a passage I once read “if you don’t build your dreams, someone will hire you to build theirs”.

There comes a time in life you must not regret the mistakes and failures. Only use these as lessons to help strengthen your character to become a better person.

We’ve all fallen off our bikes, but we learn that once there’s momentum, it gets much easier. The best part is to maintain speed because now you can coast without much effort.

What dreams are you building? Have you started peddling? What’s the speed of your momentum? Sometimes you must dig deep because the hill of life has become steeper. Maybe, you’re fighting against a strong wind, and it takes all your energy to fight through it. But, with determination and pride, you can win the battle.

No matter the circumstances, find a way to keep moving. One of my clients is 71 years old. It’s been impressive over the past few months to watch her body develop into an athlete. Yes, her muscles are bigger, she’s much stronger, along with diminishing aches and pains.

Unlike most older people, this client chose not to throw in the towel, but to keep moving with life. This is the strongest she’s been in her adult life. I get to observe this phenomenal with all my clients.

So, what are you waiting for? Don’t give up. Choose to be different than people your age. Let them hang-out in rocking chairs to talk about the weather. Tell them you just finished 3 sets of bicep curls for 20 reps – as you flex your guns.

Now, continue peddling your bicycle of dreams, keep the momentum and you’ll never fall off again.