By David Tepera, August 27, 2025

One thing I enjoy about being a columnist for The Daily News, is all the emails I receive each week. On a side note, I respond to everyone for I appreciate the feedback.

Now, one of the most common messages I get from people is about how I keep it real. That’s exactly who I am. I’ve done so much stupid stuff throughout the years, that I don’t look down on anyone. If you follow me, I share most of those dumbhead decisions.

But, what I’ve learned from my mistakes is to take full responsibility, and give others credit for my successes.

Don’t let excuses become your character. We are programed to defend ourselves, so quit the blame game. 

Stop with your whining and take control of life. It’s time to be for real. As of I’ve gotten older, I frequently look in the mirror with a serious conversation. Today, I’m not going to dwell on past mistakes. Nope, I chose to be a better person for all those around me and make this world a better place.

This might be difficult to accept, but where ever you are in life is from your decisions. Why not take ownership and make choices that align with your values?

What are the core beliefs and principles that guide your behavior, decisions, and how you interact with others?

Integrity is being honest with strong moral principles. Respect is valuing others and treating with dignity. Bottom line, take responsibility, give compassion, accept humility to which personal growth will soar.

Are you ready to take back your health? How many medications have you been prescribed?

Here’s a real question; which doctors told you to start exercising and lifting weights, or here’s another prescription to give you an excuse to be lazy?

Don’t worry, I’m not scared for my realistic mindset. I have many doctor friends who believe in my philosophy. Actually, we train a variety of specialty doctors at our gym. They get it and send their patients to us because they want a successful outcome, and not excuses.

Look, I know I’ve touched on a few topics, but I’m hoping you get today’s message. There is not one of us who hasn’t used excuses for failures. I’ve done it more times that I can count. I’m constantly working on my self-behavior, so let’s all keep it real.

By David Tepera, August 20, 2025

Let’s be for real, if you’re out there giving the world your best, every day is a challenge. Yep, this is for all of you who have been knocked down, sucker punched, but chose to get back up and keep fighting.

Have you ever been terminated and unemployed? How scary is that not knowing when the next pay check is coming. Believe me, I’ve been through that a few times, but there was no time to feel sorry for myself. I kept my pride because I knew this was day one of a new chapter.

47 percent of married couples will face divorce. I know this statistic is horrible, but if this is you, then keep your head high and get ready for a new life on day one. You’re going to be okay.

Did you blow your diet recently? Don’t be hard on yourself. One of the biggest challenges is trying to eat healthy consistently. I have this conversation almost every day with clients. Who cares if you blew it on a particular day or weekend. Just start all over because every day is day one.

Since I’ve gotten older, every morning I wake up and thank God for giving me another day. Our days are numbered, so chose to be happy and let the small stuff go. It’s so easy to stress over the little things.

I’m fortunate to see my adult children every day. I don’t let a moment pass without hugging them with “I love you”. Most of you know I lost my two oldest sons, so when I hug my kids, it’s a strong embrace. They do understand my passion because it’s another day to show them my love.

What’s going on in your life that makes today day one? I know it’s difficult to let go of the past, but those are only lessons. What happened yesterday is over. Don’t let that situation live in you head today. Nope, bad experiences is what makes us stronger.

Lift your head high, poke out your chest, and walk around with pride. No one can defeat you. We all get knocked down, but you will get back up swinging. You’re beautiful strong and powerful, so get out there and conquer the world because this is day one. 

By David Tepera, August 19, 2025

I’m so glad that I grew up in the 1960’s and 70’s. it was the era of where all the kids would meet out in the streets to ride bikes, play hopscotch, kickball, basketball in the driveway, or just hanging out.

None of us wanted to be at home because that meant chores. Back in the day, there wasn’t internet or video games. We used our imaginations and creativity to entertain ourselves. My iPad was an etch-a-sketch. Only you oldies will appreciate that joke.

So, for us in the golden years, don’t you appreciate the values and hard work our parents instilled in us? I didn’t know any of my friend’s parents by their first names.

I was fortunate to be raised by a father who was a high school football coach. One of the biggest benefits was understanding the importance of competition. Dad told me, the lessons of playing sports will prepare you for the real world. And boy, I took full advantage of my youthful years.

Well, here we are. The body doesn’t want to run anymore, can’t jump without tweaking my back, and lifting heavy objects is over. But, that is all perfectly acceptable.

Now, I no longer mow the lawn, but I do enjoy creating beautiful flower gardens. Every Christmas, we hire a company to hang the lights on the house and in the trees, but I lay out all the yard decorations. Believe me, it’s a three-day project.

What I’m trying to relay, yes, we are slowing down, but we are not out. There is a benefit of getting older, especially those who’ve reached retirement. Hopefully, you’re traveling and going places you’ve dreamed of. 

Are you able to hike the trails or go on long walks observing the sites? Our golden age clients are fishing, golfing, playing pickle ball, gardening, and taking family vacations around the world.

All this means is no laying around letting Father-time take you out. Nope, today you’re going to control of your life and enjoy the golden years.

Do you really need a handicap sticker or license plate? Don’t get mad at me, but you know that answer. Is your reputation of someone who gave up or a fighter? Come on, which one do you want to be?

As we get older, of course, we lose our youth, but if you take care of yourself, old age is golden.

By David Tepera, August 19, 2025

Yep, that’s right, it’s time to get up and get out. Recently, Tina, her family and I went on a vacation cruise. I knew America is becoming more obese each year, but this was shocking.

Look, don’t get me wrong, we stopped competing a few years ago, so I carry a little extra weight than from the past. Just know, as we get older, it’s perfectly okay to have some extra fat here and there. Don’t beat yourself up for a few extra pounds. At some point, it’s time to enjoy retirement and older age. But, there must be a limit.

It’s no longer how you look, but how you feel.

This world has become so easy and lazy which has created an obesity epidemic. We no longer have to get up to change the tv channels, shopping is now at our finger tips to be delivered to the door steps. The easy list is almost endless. I’m sure the most exercise some people get is waking to the refrigerator.

I was in my 40’s the first time I had my car’s oil changed from some oil drop and stop. How many of you still do yard work? I understand, at some point and age, there are some maintenance and repairs best left for others. But, what’s your daily activity consist of?

When’s the last time you walked around the block? Don’t give the excuse for the heat. By now, you should know about mall walkers. That’ right, put on your sneakers, and start walking in the comfort of the local mall. This pertains to all of you, including wheelchair and walker people. Bottom line, get up and get out.

One thing we can all do is quit and be lazy. Quitting is easy, but facing your fears and ambitions will be rewarding. Don’t worry about what other’s think because you went out of your comfort zone and changed your life. Everyone has an excuse, but not you.

Listen, there was a time in my life I tried to blame everyone for my mistakes. Once I realized it was on me, my life changed.

 Come on now, there’s a wonderful life out there, and all you must do is get up and get out.

Lastly, happy birthday to my amazing sister Karen Tepera Franklin. She’s made this world a better place.

By David Tepera, August 19, 2025

Let’s be for real, if you’re out there giving the world your best, every day is a challenge. Yep, this is for all of you who have been knocked down, sucker punched, but chose to get back up and keep fighting.

Have you ever been terminated and unemployed? How scary is that not knowing when the next pay check is coming. Believe me, I’ve been through that a few times, but there was no time to feel sorry for myself. I kept my pride because I knew this was day one of a new chapter.

47 percent of married couples will face divorce. I know this statistic is horrible, but if this is you, then keep your head high and get ready for a new life on day one. You’re going to be okay.

Did you blow your diet recently? Don’t be hard on yourself. One of the biggest challenges is trying to eat healthy consistently. I have this conversation almost every day with clients. Who cares if you blew it on a particular day or weekend. Just start all over because every day is day one.

Since I’ve gotten older, every morning I wake up and thank God for giving me another day. Our days are numbered, so chose to be happy and let the small stuff go. It’s so easy to stress over the little things.

I’m fortunate to see my adult children every day. I don’t let a moment pass without hugging them with “I love you”. Most of you know I lost my two oldest sons, so when I hug my kids, it’s a strong embrace. They do understand my passion because it’s another day to show them my love.

What’s going on in your life that makes today day one? I know it’s difficult to let go of the past, but those are only lessons. What happened yesterday is over. Don’t let that situation live in you head today. Nope, bad experiences is what makes us stronger.

Lift your head high, poke out your chest, and walk around with pride. No one can defeat you. We all get knocked down, but you will get back up swinging. You’re beautiful strong and powerful, so get out there and conquer the world because this is day one. 

By David Tepera, July30, 2025

A few years ago, my wife Tina and her mom Brenda started dabbling in the world of art. They both took classes to educate themselves about the variety of paintings. To keep it short, one of Tina’s favorite artists is Rembrandt, but she also recognizes that those paintings are out of our financial reach.

Well, during that time, we rescued a senior dog that had a previous rough life. I told Tina, let’s name it Rembrandt because that’s the closest we’ll come to owning one. So, Remy became our loving pet until recently passing away.

This is our third senior dog to shower love until their final days. Yes, we all know the heartbreak of putting down our loved ones, but the joy they bring is a lifetime of memories.

There is a variety of documented health benefits — physically, mentally and emotionally — of owning a dog.

Of course, most dog owners tend to walk more, which improves cardiovascular health, lowers blood pressure and helps with weight management. I know there are people allergic to small animals, but it has been proven that exposure to dogs, especially for children, may help with allergies and asthma by boosting the early immune system.

We all know petting and playing with dogs puts a smile on our faces. There are studies proving this behavior increases levels of oxytocin, which is the love hormone. Therapy dogs are used in many needed places like hospitals, schools and disaster zones.

I know a family who has a teenage son who battles depression and isolation. Last year, they rescued a dog for him to care for. Well, their son has come out of his shell because he has a constant companionship with unconditional love and emotional support.

The care of the dog gave their son a sense of purpose and routine to feel more normal. He is now taking the dog to the local dog park and is making friends with other dog owners.

Let me finish with this — some of the best pets you can ever find are at the local animal control or rescue organizations. These animals are typically not inbred, which lowers health issues.

At my age, we only rescue senior dogs because they are super chill. Elder dogs love to just hang out, sit in your lap and have a good belly rub. All our dogs come to the gym with us; even our son Dylan’s rescue Buddy has grown up at Ageless Muscle.

Now, if you’re looking for another avenue to get healthier, there’s a wonderful, loving dog waiting for you.

By David Tepera, July 19, 2025

Now, the purpose of today’s article is for older people and those who are broken. As you all know, our gym trains people of all ages, but caters to the older population. It’s common to observe our elders limp across the parking lot as they enter the gym. But, the big reward is to watch them skip and run back to the car after a proper weight training session. Okay, yes, I’m exaggerating about the skip and run, but it’s exciting to help them get over the aches and pains of osteoarthritis to have a better quality of life.

Just know, there’s no cure for OA because cartilage has no blood supply. Of course, there’s conservative treatments to help ease the progression, but eventually, cartilage will wear out.

Without going into too much detail, our bodies are constantly in defense to protect us. The cardiovascular system pumps a nutritional blood supply that helps repair and regenerate our deficiencies and injuries.

So, let’s think about our joints. Remember, I’ve dissected over 500 cadavers, plus assisted in around four thousand knee procedures, with most of them being knee replacements.

We all know what a cue ball looks like in the game of pool. Well, that shiny white ball looks just like the end of our joints when we are at our healthiest. Through time, and wear and tear, that cue ball breaks down and can no longer roll smoothly across the pool table.

Besides corticosteroids, NSAIDS, Visco supplementation (gel shots), and of course knee replacements, the only true treatment to help with OA pain is through a weight training program.

If you’re suffering with joint pain, especially knees, don’t throw in the towel. No, strengthen the muscles around the joint to slow the onset. I’ve heard it too many a time from people who won’t weight train due to knee pain. Listen, that’s the wrong approach. Limp yourself in the local gym and take control. I’m always available for personal advice and direction.

We love watching our clients who use to limp in, and now, go on vacation and enjoy the retirement they deserve.

Your life is totally up to you. So, get up and quit limping because it’s time to run and skip.

By David Tepera, July 9, 2025

We just celebrated the 249^th year of the United States of America.

With my late son Specialist Dustin Tepera, who served in the Iraq war, including my mom Eileen Tepera, who served in the Air Force, we are a very patriotic family.

Actually, I have multiple relatives who fought for our country that I can no longer thank for their dedication. None of us will be around forever, so why not embrace people and spread kindness while you can?

When’s the last time you’ve told someone how much you love them? Don’t we all want to hear the word love?

Let someone close know how much you love them and watch the relationship bloom. I never pass an opportunity to embrace my kids with the strength of love. I’ve lost my two oldest sons, so I never take a moment for granted. 

Even if people aren’t related, why not spread a little kindness? Hold the door, greet people with smile, give compliments, of course the list is endless.

Kindness is one of the simplest, yet most powerful human qualities. It costs nothing and means everything.

Tina has a close friend who lost a sister and niece to the floods we all just witnessed. Without going into detail, we are doing everything possible to help with their tragedy.

Nothing is more valuable than giving someone your time. I know people who visit with seniors in assistant living facilities, volunteer at animal shelters and foster animals, or help at food pantry and soup kitchens. Volunteering is one of the best acts of kindness to give.

Fellas, how many of you were raised with chivalry? Chivalry originated in medieval times as a code of conduct for the knights. This ethical and social code combined bravery, honor, loyalty, protection of the weak and faith.

Today’s meaning is focused more on respect, integrity, and decency towards others. My heart warms watching my grown children interacting with people. There’s always a smile, compliment and kindness they give to others. Even when Dylan opens the car door for his girlfriend.

Come on now, let’s all take the time to spread a little kindness. It’s simple and most rewarding.

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.

By David Tepera, June 24, 2025

When Tina and I met many years ago, she soon realized, I didn’t have any close friends. I explained that being a single dad for over 10-years, there was no time for anyone but my children.

My kids gave me power that can’t be explained. I’m sure there are many of you out there who can relate. I loved being their father, plus quickly learned the roll as a mother. I know longer cared about anyone’s thoughts because these are my children and I’m here to not only protect, but raise as respectful people.

Okay, that’s enough about us. Where do you get your power? Can you dig deep within and find strength, or are you weak and need approval from others?

Listen, people really don’t care about anything but themselves. If they talk negative about you or others, then they lack confidence amongst themselves. It’s obvious, weak people put others down.

Now, where are you in life? Are you out there battling the world? People want you to fail, so leave them in your dust. At the end of day, the only thing matters is how you feel about yourself.

 What internal power is needed to get your health back? How many hours to you spend in the doctor’s office compared to the gym? How many prescriptions do you take compared to eating healthy? I know those are hard questions, but someone needs to call it out.

We all know our bad habits and destructive behavior. Don’t misunderstand me, I’m not casting stones because there is a time to reap the rewards of good old country cooking, and a few cocktails.

As you all know, Tina and I practically live in our gym and keep a healthy diet. But, when on vacation, there is nothing healthy about it.

We always crack up when registering at the front desk of a resort. The clerk looks us up and down, then informs that the gym is located on the third floor. Our reply is we don’t want to see a gym, so can you direct us to the bar.

Okay now, this is your day to decide what power to pull from. Why can’t today be a life changer? What’s holding you back? Everything about your life is your decision. Your stronger than ever imagined, so get up and do something about it.