All posts by David

Growing up with a father who was a high school football coach, I was around sports my entire life. Even to this day, at the age of 55, I'm a professional physique competitor. So, as you can read from my blog, I see the world as one big sports arena that teaches us all lessons on life. Enjoy, because today, your life will change.
Inspiration

Benefits of setting goals go beyond the gym

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, May 17, 2016

One of my very best friends is 69-year-old former body builder Mike Rebescher. Personally, Mike is one of the most successful businessmen I know.

Recently, I had breakfast with Mike and asked if there’s a correlation to his success and years as a body builder.

Mike looked me dead in the eyes with a stern face and told me “absolutely.”

Mike explained body building taught him to be more goal-orientated. It had also pushed him outside of his comfort zone, which built his confidence, mental toughness, strength and strong character.

Mike started dabbling with weights around the age of 12 at his local YMCA, but truly didn’t dedicate himself until he turned 40. I know countless people who’ve given up by the age of 40.

Mike’s body building journey lasted until he was 53, even though weightlifting and staying in shape has been a lifetime commitment.

Mike made it clear that no matter what struggles in life or in business he encounters, he can grind it out because he’s already tested himself beyond belief.

Believe me, that evening I was throwing some crazy weight around in the gym. Even to this day, when Mike attends business meetings and sees the other out-of-shape members, he knows he owns the room.

You see, that statement includes each of us. When you’re the fittest person in the room, you reflect strength, dedication and discipline.

Employers want you to represent their company to which you’ll get the job and promotions. It’s probably not fair, but it’s the way the subconscious mind works.

I know we all don’t have the desire or dedication to become body builders, but hopefully you’ve understood the “take home” message.

For those of us who’ve been around awhile, maybe it’s time to bring back the Jordan slogan “Be like Mike.”

Inspiration

Sometimes, all you need is one more step

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, May 10, 2016

When my daughter brings her clothes to the laundry room, half the clothes make it into the basket. When she cleans her room, there’s typically some clutter in the corner. When Daylyn gets a glass out of the kitchen cabinet, she leaves the door open.

I’ve explained to Daylyn that if she would just take one more step, all tasks would be completed. I know these are small concerns, but it’s amazing how the extra step would make all the difference.

Now this could be applied to all aspects in our lives.

Think about when you’re at work: At the end of day, there might be one small task or project that needs finishing. If you would take one more step and complete it, then you’ve had a successful day. Plus, it creates more available time to finish more work the following day.

Why is this important? It will probably get the attention of your employers, which would lead to promotions and better income.

We all want to lose more weight and get in better shape. How about at the end of training you take one more step and perform an extra set of weights. Or, when going through a cardio workout, you push your body to an extra 10 to 30 minutes. This would at least burn up to several hundred more calories.

Just know, Daylyn did recognize the benefits of one more step and has applied it to her homework and studies.

Now, if we could all take on the “one more step” mentality, how much better and quality of life would we create?

Inspiration

Don’t give up, keep the momentum

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, May 3, 2016

Have you ever tried to push a heavy object, and at first, it was difficult until it started moving? Once the object gained momentum, it became much easier.

We can apply this same law of friction to our daily lives.

Think about when you started a new project, a new diet, a new job, a new sport and so on. The most difficult part of the process was just getting started. But once you got in motion and gained momentum, it was much easier.

There are many people I’ve helped with a new diet and exercise program. Almost each one of them was getting frustrated for the first month because their goals and expectations were not being obtained.

I explained to keep pursuing and don’t give up because that’s how our bodies work. At first, your body goes into shock and survival mode because it wants to protect itself against the forces and extremes you’re putting it through.

But once your body recognizes exercising and clean dieting is a new way of life, it will start adjusting and transform itself to the constant demands. Hopefully, this makes sense.

The key component to all of this is momentum. Once you’ve gained momentum, everything gets easier.

Notice during sports competition when a team gets momentum and starts a lot of scoring, the other team’s coach will call a timeout to stop it. This typically works.

The great news is that the only thing that can stop your momentum — is you.

Just know if reaching extreme goals was easy, then everyone would accomplish them. That’s the beauty and the end reward. It’s something that took full effort and dedication.

Plus, you’re the one who did it. You alone defeated all the obstacles and barriers that stood in your way. You clawed, sweated, studied, fought the battle and became king of the mountain.

Don’t hesitate. Today’s the day to get your bodies and ambitions started to gain momentum in this game of life.

Inspiration

Do what it takes to reach goals

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 26, 2016

Recently, I had an inspiring conversation with a young lady named Maricruz Diaz. She had a slight accent, so I asked to share her story. At first, Maricruz was a little reluctant but proceeded to amaze me.

Maricruz had come to the United States a few years ago to pursue her dream of obtaining a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She started her journey in Mexico completing almost two years of college but was given a new opportunity here to continue a full education.

She faced many obstacles and setbacks. First, the American nursing school didn’t accept any credits from Mexico. Next, Maricruz had to take one year of English, which she completed, then one year of remedial classes to prove her understanding. Finally, she took two years of prerequisites to be accepted into school.

After 4-5 years of schooling, she is now ready to start a four-year program for nursing.

Oh, did I mention she works 40 hours a week in a hospital organizing surgical instruments?

I can’t tell you how many people have told me that they don’t have time to reach their goals, no time to go to the gym, exercise or clean up their diet.

I know a grown man in his 30s who hasn’t worked in almost four years because he found a way to work the system and receive a free check from the government.

Maricruz told me she is one of five siblings, and all of them have college degrees.

Her dad is a retired construction worker, and her mom was a full-time, stay-at-home mom. Yes, they might have been somewhat financially poor but obviously wealthy in family values.

Listen, we’ve got to stop giving excuses for our lazy behavior. It doesn’t matter what your age and current status quo. Step your game up, get excited about what lies ahead and live out your dreams like a young lady named Maricruz Diaz.

Inspiration

Now’s the time to separate yourself

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 19, 2016

Are you bored with your life? Have you allowed yourself to become complacent with the same old routine each day?

Look around and notice, you’re probably wearing the same style of clothes as everyone else your gender and age. And sadly, you’re probably just as out of shape and overweight.

We are all creatures of habit. It’s our way of staying organized and possibly less stressed. But there are many of you whose routine isn’t going anywhere productive.

Maybe now’s the time to separate yourself from the average person. Be the silent leader by changing diet, exercise and lifestyle.

You will find it very rewarding and encouraging when people ask, “Something is different about you. You look good. Did you lose weight?”

My son Dylan is a junior in high school. His basketball season ended around two months ago. Afterward, we had a serious discussion to find a way to separate him from all the other players since he will become a senior and in his final season.

Our plan is to add as much muscle mass as possible and to work on speed and vertical leap.

What most people don’t understand is you typically don’t see results from training until after at least a month. If you can stick with it past that time, then body changes start kicking in and keep rolling.

Dylan didn’t have any weight increases during the first month, even though he was eating six meals a day. He also brings food to school to eat between classes.

But now, a little more than two months into training, he has gained 12 pounds of solid muscle, massively increased strength and added almost 2 inches to his vertical.

You see, Dylan is the average height of 6-feet, 1 inch like the majority of players on his team. But I guarantee next season he will be the biggest, fastest and strongest.

Now, it’s time for you to separate yourself from co-workers or teammates. Put a plan together, stick with it, and take your life to a whole new level.

Fitness, Inspiration

My first experience with cryotherapy

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 12, 2016 

Recently, an ex-body builder and good friend of mine told me about a new treatment called cryotherapy and how it helped him and his wife feel amazingly better.

I was already somewhat familiar with cryo because I knew superstar athletes were using it. I never thought much about it since I’m a common man.

Well, my friend sent me to I-Cryo in League City to meet with the owner and manager Kyle Jones to find out what this new craze is all about.

After a brief cryotherapy education from Kyle, I stepped into the I-Cryo unit for a 3-minute session. I went in at level one, which dropped the temperature to negative-220 degrees.

Yes, it was cold, but bearable since it’s cooled by nitrogen. Oh, did I mention the only thing you’re wearing is gloves and socks? So men, use the gloves to keep the boys covered and warm — if you know what I mean.

To my amazement, I felt great and had extra energy throughout the rest of day, even my aching joints were better. To understand the full benefit package, go to www.i-cryo.com.

But, what impressed me the most was the knowledge and expertise Kyle Jones possessed. Not only did Kyle have a bachelor’s degree in exercise science, but he had a passion to help others through a whole new method.

Kyle took the last 2 1/2 years of his life to study cryotherapy and meet with medical professionals and manufacturing companies to bring the best product and business model to his clients.

Bottom line, Kyle made it affordable for all of us common people. Kyle takes the time to educate all clients, so you’ll completely understand the full benefit and positive effects on your body.

Kyle told me that a few years back, he made a life-altering decision to dedicate his life to helping people without any returns. To him, it’s not about money, it’s about changing one life at a time.

Inspiration

One play can win a game or change your life

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, April 5, 2016

How many times have you played or watched a sporting event in which one play turned the game around?

Think about it — one shot, one block, one hit, one spike, one tackle, and so on.

Most of the time, this is extremely important while the clock is winding down.

Before every basketball game my son Dylan plays, I remind him that one shot doesn’t lose the game, but one shot will win it. He knows to take the shot.

How about the one play in our daily lives? What’s the one situation or the person who has changed your life? Maybe, it was a job opportunity, kind words during a difficult time, or even money and help when you desperately needed it.

Remember, to make it a truly life-altering event, you must be all in. No turning back to old ways and habits.

There had been many situations where one play enhanced my life.

One of the biggest events was more than 10 years ago, becoming a single parent raising two kids practically on my own. I had to immediately break some bad habits and become the best role model possible.

This not only gave my kids a wonderful loving life, but created amazing opportunities for me as well.

I know other people who’ve had one negative play that changed their life forever.

A friend of mine saw herself in Christmas pictures this past December. She came to me shaking and crying with embarrassment asking for help. I let her know that she’s already won the biggest battle because of her commitment and desire.

This lady is on a mission and has lost over 20 pounds in three months.

Let’s admit it, we’ve all had one-play events in our lives, but how many of you have been the one play in other’s lives? It’s as simple as an act of kindness.

Look around and reach out. Hopefully, your name comes up when someone confesses the one play that changed their life.

Inspiration

Do you have a March Madness mentality?

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Since my son Dylan’s passion is basketball, we’ve been watching the March Madness tournament.

One of the exciting components of this particular tournament is that each game will be your last — if you lose. So, every team and each player is playing to their utmost ability.

It’s been amazing watching these players battle to the end with last-second game-winning shots.

This made me think about my own life and how I attack each day.

How much more productive and powerful would we be if we took on March Madness mentality? For us to get up each morning with the ambition to conquer the day because if we don’t, it could be our last — to know losing is not an option.

I will be the hardest worker today. I’ll get to work 30 minutes earlier and stay 30 minutes later.

I’ll let everyone close to me know how much I love and appreciate them.

All my friends can count on me to be trustworthy and dependable.

My children will have an interacting father helping with homework, shooting hoops in the driveway, getting snow cones and giving lots of hugs.

Those of you in relationships, be creative and adventurous to show appreciation and love. It could be as simple as going grocery shopping together.

Today will not see shortcuts. I will be in full force to smash through negative barriers, leaping over life’s obstacles to cross the finish line setting new records.

Just know, you better get out of my way because I’m not going around you.

Since I’m a champion today, I’ll take it to a new level tomorrow and conquer this March Madness tournament of life.

Inspiration

In what chapter of life are you?

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 22, 2016

We all go through different phases and chapters throughout our journey of life. What chapter are you experiencing today compared to yesteryears?

I’m in my mid-50s, and today’s chapter is completely different from my 40s and beyond.

One common denominator is that I’ve always maintained a decent diet and exercised frequently. As I progressed through my 30s and to date, my knowledge and experience in these categories excelled. That’s because I understand keeping a healthy body is important for a better quality of life.

Hopefully, as you get older, you are recognizing this as well.

But really, most important is our character development. Over the past 10 years, I started a personal campaign to become a loving, caring and compassionate person to all mankind. This has drastically changed my life.

I learned to forgive those who wrong me by understanding their reasons and through time, was able to erase it from my daily consciousness. This mental action relieved me from tremendous unnecessary stress. Plus, it opened the door for peace and relaxation.

We get caught up stressing over negative situations that should be in our pasts.

Once, my daughter Daylyn had another student say some very hurtful words to her. I found Daylyn crying in her room and asked about the situation.

After a brief loving father-daughter talk, I asked when this had happened. To my surprise, it occurred more than a month ago.

I told Daylyn, “Don’t you realize, only in your mind this person is still being mean to you because you’re letting it? I guarantee the other student has moved on with their life and doesn’t give you one thought. Forgive their immature idiotic behavior and be the amazing happy little girl everyone loves.”

Can’t we all relate to Daylyn’s situation?

Just know, if someone is being ugly to you, it’s because there is something about you that makes them jealous and envious. If they are comfortable with themselves, they wouldn’t care.

Come on, let’s all write the same new chapter in life for character development to become compassionate toward others. We are in this journey together, and hopefully one day, we will cross paths.

Diets

Are you ready for Spring Break weather?

By DAVID TEPERA | Posted: Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Uh oh, it’s spring break week, and you just realized that you’re not swimsuit ready. I’m sure there are plenty of you wishing you would have stuck with the New Year’s resolution to lose weight.

For those of us who are no longer in school, spring break is only a reminder that the summer months are upon us. We live in this southern heat and humidity, and loose clothing and shorts are part of our daily lives.

You can no longer hide fat underneath big clothes and jackets, even though you’ll try.

What happens to us is we try to set diet and fitness goals, and when we realize that it won’t get accomplished, we give up.

My suggestion is to eliminate goals, even though it’s a motivator for some.

I’ve stopped setting diet goals years ago. I just decided to make lifestyle changes, which created body transformation. It’s a slow process, but, in time, it works and stays.

Don’t set yourself up for failure. Start slow by eliminating certain foods on certain days, eat smaller food portions and choose water over other drinks.

Remember, losing weight isn’t in the gym. It’s in the kitchen.

Because of daylight saving, our days are longer, so get out and start moving to enjoy the air and sun.

Really, we are all beautiful people within our own skin. The true meaning of diet and exercise is to become healthier and have more energy.

Don’t get caught up trying to have a perfect body. I know countless people who compete in the fitness and body building world, and they are never happy with their bodies.

Men, as you get older, it’s normal to carry a little extra weight around your waist. For women, it’s normal to carry extra weight around hips and thighs. Believe me, some of us appreciate it — wink-wink.

Swimsuit weather is here, so start making changes now to enjoy a better energetic lifestyle.