By David Tepera, October 12, 2025

The definition of gratitude is the expression of being thankful and appreciative. It’s a positive emotional response to appreciate the kindness, help and benefits you’ve received from others.

The best part of understanding gratitude is the state of mind you will enter due to an increase of happiness, stronger relationships, including reduced stress.

For me personally, years ago, I decided to step away from any negative or destructive influence from others. Why let them control your emotions when we all have something to be grateful for? Notice, negative people seem to migrate to each other, but also, positive people seem to bond and find happiness and success.

Stop focusing on what has gone wrong in your life, but enjoy the gratitude of the goodness, plus those who helped you.

When my kids were young, we would sit around the dinner table to discuss gratitude. We took turns sharing the best experiences of the day. It was simple as doing small gestures for others. My kids loved helping students that had challenges. There’s so much more to that story.

Listen, we all have challenges, but there is always something to be grateful for. You just have to open your mind and let go of all the negatives that others try to throw at you. Misery loves company, but you are no longer miserable.

What are your first thoughts when you wake? Isn’t it amazing to get another day of life and choices?

I’m always up before my wife Tina. Every morning, I look over at her sleeping and can’t believe she’s mine. Her gratitude starts with a home cooked breakfast.

We both express our gratitude each day as we pull up to our business. Daily, we hear the gratitude from our clients expressing the quality of life we’ve given back to them. But really, it was the client who chose to take control.

Come on now, what’s your gratitude? What are you going to accomplish today that makes you happy? When your head hits the pillow tonight, what are the positive thoughts that run through your mind?

How many people did you impact today? Did you make a difference in this world that others appreciate you for? We all have that power. It just comes down to a choice.

Now, let’s all take a deep breath, and realize there is so much gratitude to be thankful for.

By David Tepera, October 5, 2025

I can not express enough about the importance of presentation. It varies across almost all aspects of life, including work, communication, food, public speaking, and most important – your physical appearance and character.

From early on, we are all trying to find our identity. This is the reason by high school, that we hung out with a specific group because they made us feel accepted.

Today, you’ve become an adult in the real world. What is your presentation? Every room you walk into, people form an impression immediately.

If you’re seeking the corporate world, do you have the physical appearance and speaking voice to win over the competition? Think about it, would you hire you?

In today’s world, the are countless opportunities for all sorts of people. You just need to take a serious look that you have the presentation to succeed in that particular line of work.

Tina, Dylan and I just happen to be in the health and fitness business, so we make sure our bodies represent the professionalism we market. It is an important appearance towards the success of Ageless Muscle.

Remember, two things we all control is our physical appearance, plus the way we treat others.

Let’s switch gears a little. I’m sure some of you will agree with me, when dining out, the presentation of the food is important. For all restaurant owners, besides the appetizers and entrees tasting delicious, the presentation of the dish is extremely important. When that platter hits the table, it should have the visual appearance that the customer is ready to dive in.

Let me give you a couple examples. A few years ago, Tina and I had a date lunch at a popular local seafood restaurant. We ordered some appetizing crab cakes, along with a few cocktails. When we received the crab cakes, they were the only item on the plate. There was no presentation. Why not throw a little parsley with squiggly sauce on the plate? It didn’t matter how tasty it was, we were thrown off because of the presentation. We will never go back, and believe me, there are others on our list.

Now, on the bright side. Recently, we experienced an upscale restaurant in Galveston. The steak and lobster were cooked and presented with perfection, plus the entire experience was first class. We are now on a mission to make Tuesday evenings – date night.  

Bottom line, if you want to win, what’s your presentation?

By David Tepera, October 1, 2025

Go ahead and answer the question “how many challenges are you facing today?”.

When you’re giving this world your best, there will always be challenges. Even those who decided to throw in the towel and accept failure will still have challenges. You can-not escape the realities of life.

How many of you battle obesity, addiction, heart disease, arthritis, cancer, depression, financial issues, divorce, or you fill in the blank. Just know, in severe cases, seek out professional help.

Today is about you. Just know, you’re not alone. From the wealthy to the poor, you face challenges each day. The only thing that separates people is how they respond.

As you know, We’re in the health and fitness world, so we give advice throughout the country. All of us will eventually face physical issues. Whatever yours may be, accept it and begin the steps to improve it. Don’t rely on excuses, so get up and take control.

Listen, if you are depressed, weak, no energy, please don’t give up. We will all enter the gates of Heaven, but today is not the day to give up.

Why sit back and feel sorry for yourself? Believe me, no one around you cares, so be a warrior. There’s a time in life where you need to focus on you and stop worrying about what other’s think.

Years ago, I accepted all my failures and realized I’m just human who experienced life. Some good, some not so good, but so what? I don’t need anyone’s approval because today I’m doing my best, and so should you. Are you with me?

I was fortunate to have a support system around me during the struggles. Even though Dad has past, I do want to thank my parents for sticking with me through the toughest of times. Today, my wife Tina and I tackle the challenges together.

Hopefully, you have a support system too. If you don’t, that means you’re the strong one who’s supporting others.

Life has been throwing challenges your whole life. I don’t care what your situation is, it’s time to start fighting back. Go out with a bang. Get up, put your game face on, and punch your challenges in the face.

By David Tepera, September 16, 2025

Recently, my son Dylan and I played a round of golf at a local course. Just know, I am not an avid golfer, and only play to spend time with family or fund raisers. Even though I rarely play, I do have an average game.

I was a single parent for over ten years, so giving up a Saturday or Sunday playing golf wasn’t a thought. I spent the weekends coaching my kid’s sports and building memories.

Years ago, I bought a nice set of Callaway clubs, including all the additional name brand gear. Even when I don’t play that well, I do look good. Okay, that’s a joke.

Dylan doesn’t play that well either, but we get a kick out of making fun of each other. For all you golfing enthusiast, we do respect the course and other golfers. We’ve played enough to give proper etiquette which is important.

To both our surprises, Dylan actually parred the first hole, so he had bragging rights from the beginning. But, as usual, the rest of the course wasn’t as friendly.

On most tee-offs, Dylan had a great drive down the fairway. His short game was semi-decent, and like some of us, three putting kept him in the bogie category.

Being his dorky dad, I told Dylan this game is similar to life. Even though every shot counts, don’t define yourself with one bad shot. Pick up and stay focused because the best shot might be the next shot.

For all you golfers, don’t you agree, when trying your best to beat others in a foursome, you’re actually competing against yourself? No one else is swinging that club. The end results is totally from your skills.

Sometimes the playing conditions don’t seem fair. It could be a windy day, with bumpy greens and sand traps.

Success in life is never a smooth ride. We’re going to slice it in the trees, hook it in the rough, but we’ll keep swinging because finishing the hole is the goal. Giving up is not an option.

Playing golf for most can be frustrating, but it forces us to focus and have patience. There is a time in life that we need to slow down to get farther, not rush it to find ourselves in the weeds.

Listen, we will ever master golf and play a perfect round, but that’s really not our goal. But, it is fun to have that one hole we can brag about because golf has many life lessons.

By David Tepera, September 12, 2025

How come, back in the day, people ate red meat, bacon, mash potatoes with gravy, and all the delicious fried foods you can think of, and never got fat? Compare that to today’s overwhelming multiple fad diets, food channels, tic tock videos, or any other social media gurus that suck you into another failed diet program.

Stop it. Quit spending worthless money to stay fat. I know, there’s all these new prescription drugs that’s helping countless people lose weight. To me, if this gives you a boost to start a healthier lifestyle, then I support it. But, what lifestyle changes are you going to make in order to maintain that transition? Just know, you’re not only losing fat with these drugs, but muscle and bone density as well. Yep, you lost weight, but did you get healthier, or create new problems?

You ready for the secret to losing weight? Have you ever heard of “more output than input”? It’s as simple as being more active than the food consumption. We all love to eat, but what are you doing to utilize the intake? Eating without exercising is a life of doctor visits and excuses.

Now, there is nothing wrong with having a little extra weight. If you’re comfortable with the way you look, then that’s fantastic. Since I stopped body building competing a few years ago, I have a few extra pounds around the ole belly. I’m okay with it because at the age of 64, I still have a lot of energy.

My message today is not about how you look, but how you feel. There are no competitors in our gym. We have people of all body types and ages. All of our client’s goals are to be healthier to enjoy life again. As we get older, isn’t that what we all want?

I don’t care what your diet consists of or prescriptions taken. Aren’t you ready to go outside and get your body in motion? Oh no David, it’s way too hot. That’s a lame excuse. Get up, allow the sun to kiss your skin, and let the impurities release your body through perspiration. Believe me, you’ll feel better physically and mentally.

So, today, life is going to change for the better. Getting healthier is simple and easier than you think. All it takes is getting up and get your butt in motion.

By David Tepera, September 3, 2025

Sooner of later, all of us will be on some type of medication to help our deficiencies. The scary part is learning all the side effects from these prescriptions. Sometimes, they seem worse than the disease being treated.

What are we doing to ourselves? Of course, we trust our doctors, but how did we get there? Why do these deficiencies catch up with us that we need more medicine?

I do understand there are diseases due to genetics, including congenital which is birth defects.

 But, let’s be for real, most of our problems are lifestyle related. Don’t you think your health issues are from a poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, excessive alcohol, and stress?

Here is a crazy stat for you. In America, from the age of 65 and onward, 1 in 6 people will develop dementia during their lifetime. (women 1 in 5, men 1 in 7) Why is all this happening? You already know that answer. You don’t need a PHD or medical degree to diagnose yourself. It’s the side effect from your lifestyle.

Now, that’s enough about negative side effects from being lazy. What can possibly be the side effect from a healthier life?

There’s more to it than just losing weight and getting stronger. How productive would your days be if you had more energy and better sleep? Eating nutritious foods and staying active will contribute to a stronger immune system. That means fewer colds, infections, and illness.

Mentally, exercise releases endorphins to help balance brain chemicals that affect mood, give sharper focus and memory, including anti-depression.

 We all have choices, so why not make healthy decisions that give you a quality of life. Isn’t this the side effect you would like to experience? Believe me, you are never too old. We have multiple clients in their 70’s and 80’s and they are reaping the side effects from lifting weights.

Would you rather hang out in the recliner watching useless information on the tele, or going on vacation to your favorite destiny?

Listen, I’m here for you. Don’t be embarrassed to reach out to me. Let me help give you simple tips to getting back in life. It’s easier than you think. You can make a change today.

If you don’t like the side effects that you’re currently experiencing, then do something about it.

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.