By David Tepera, April 9, 2025

Just know, I submit my articles on Sunday afternoons for Wednesday’s column. So, as I’m writing this, I have no idea of Monday nights championship game turnout.
I can only hope as an University of Houston Alumni, that the men’s basketball team finally won the NCAA championship.
Let’s take a little step back in time and dig up some information. Most people don’t know that the University of Houston women had a campus team years before the men. Once Title IX became into law in 1972, the women’s team became official in 1975.
Now, the men’s basketball team did officially start for the 1950-51 season. Since then, the team competed in 7 Final Four appearances. But, it’s heartening to know they have never won the championship.
For all you University of Houston basketball fans, I believe we all remember getting sucker-punched in the final seconds during the 1983 championship against the late Jim Valvano’s NC State Wolfpacks.
That was the era of the Phi Slamma Jamma with Hakeem Olajuwon, Clyde Drexler, Michael Young and others, including LaMarque’s true freshman the late Alvin Franklin.
To give credit, Tommy Bonk was a sport’s columnist for the Houston Post. He needed a title for the next day’s article. Well, on that particular night, Houston scored 112 points, with over half coming from dunks. Bonk was the creator for the name Phi Slamma Jamma and the rest is history.
Back in the day, I used to go to College of the Mainland for pickup basketball games in the evening. On one particular night, I had the privilege of guarding Alvin in one of the games. He tried his best, but couldn’t stop my dunk-fest.
Okay, you know I’m fantasizing. Alvin shut my game down and destroyed our team, and he was still in 9th grade. Also, I went to school with all the Franklin family, and they were really kind and friendly classmates.
Kelvin Sampson has been the Houston head basketball coach for 11 years. The program he has built has put Houston back on the map for a team to reckon with.
It’s interesting because I’ve been a cougar during my whole athletic career. From LaMarque cougars to University of Houston cougars.
Again, I have no idea of Monday’s outcome, but I will be watching and cheering on my school with great pride. Go Coogs!

By David Tepera, April 9, 2025

Recently, I was taking a break, relaxing for a moment, and was staring at my hands. I’m turning 64 in a couple of months, and was noticing how much these hands have aged. When dad was dying four years ago, my sister Karen snapped a picture of us holding hands. Dad is twenty years older and you can’t tell whose hands are who in the picture.
Listen, we can’t stop time, but we have control of what we do with our time. Take a hard look at your own hands. How much love have those hands given? How many people have you hugged and touched?
I think of the years raising my children and wiping away tears, applying band-aids, lifting and throwing them in the air as they squealed with laughter, and of course, holding them the day they were born. The list is endless with kids.
What all have you built with those hands? Hopefully, you used your hands to make other’s lives better and not to destroy. We’ve all made mistakes we regret, but your hands can still mend those circumstances. Just think about the power of a true handshake. I even taught my daughter Daylyn the importance of a firm grip.
Next time you hold the hand of an elderly person, take the moment and think of what all those hands have been through.
When I used to train my best friend and 102-year-old Pater Johnson, I knew in those last few months he would be leaving us. Pater and I would spend time together each week, but before I left his house, we would hold hands and say our good-byes. All I could think about from this WWII Vet, is what have those hands been through? I would cry all the way back to our gym. Tina was waiting because she knew I needed help to regain my composure.
How are you going to use your hands today? Do you realize how important our hands are? Would you take millions of dollars to have your hands taken away? Of course not, because that’s the power of having hands.
Now, take a good look at your own hands. Don’t be concerned about the aging process because our hands have done more for us than any other body part. Place your hands against your face and listen to the stories they get to tell.

By David Tepera, March 25, 2025

Did you know that certain stresses lasting minutes or hours on your body is healthy and beneficial? There are plenty of studies proving short-term stresses boosts immune systems, produces endorphins, plus makes you more aware and confident. There’s always a reaction to any action, so the body must respond to stress placed upon it.
How does the body react under weight loading stress? It builds muscle and increases bone density. When you keep the body stressing with a consistent weight lifting program, the muscular and skeletal system will grow. You’ve read it from me many times, but you can still build muscle, bone density, and heal at any age. There are no excuses.
What happens when the body is stressed in heat or a hot environment? The cooling system kicks in with perspiration, along with melanin to protect the skin. In case you didn’t know, your skin is the largest organ of the body. When’s the last time you had a good sweat?
What are the benefits of cold weather conditions? It also enhances immune system to keep the body warm. That’s why in some cases we begin to shiver. The body is creating heat, which also burns more calories.
If you haven’t noticed, there are plenty of “Cryo” facilities popping up all around us. Even some professional athletes own them. Spending several minutes in a supervised sub-cold condition can help with sleep, improved brain function, reduce inflammation, fewer allergies, rejuvenate skin and strengthens your heart.
Now, don’t misunderstand me, I’m not pertaining to extreme conditions. These all have devastating results that’s not part of today’s topic.
When’s the last time you’ve put physical stress on your body? If not, why not? If you live in a sedentary lifestyle, then it’s time to get outside and go for a walk, plant a flower garden, sweep the porch and driveway, or get up and clean your house.
If you are active, then it’s also time to change up your routine. Add an extra mile to your walk, increase the weight to you training program, or choose to exercise on an off-day. The choices are endless.
Listen, placing healthy stress on your body has many benefits to all the systems. This includes cardiac and pulmonary. The heart is a muscle and needs to be exercised. Your lungs oxygenate the entire body, so it’s a must to strengthen their capacity with heavy breathing.
Now, get up and create some healthy stress on your body.

By David Tepera, March 11, 2025

We are now in the month of March. Are you still sitting around being lazy telling yourself that when the weather gets better, you’ll start exercising. Well, have you started, or what’s your excuse today? I’m sure that couch feels so comfy, along with a big bag of chips and soda.
How many of you pay gym memberships each month, but can’t remember the last time you went?
What will it take for you to finally make a change in your health? I’ll be honest with you. Over three years ago, I was put in the hospital from a strange reaction to a particular medication. At that time, I lost over thirty pounds. Once cured, I gained all my weight back, plus an additional amount. I’ve been battling to lose that extra weight ever since.
Believe me, I understand the struggle of losing weight, the discipline of eating healthier, plus developing a consistent exercise program. It’s still a battle for me to this day, but I’m trying my best. I’m just fortunate to own a gym, so I do exercise and lift weights five days a week. Of course, the most difficult challenge is food portion control and frequency of eating.
What I’m trying to let you know is to never give up, or get discouraged.
I hear from people all the time of how I keep it real. I’m no better than the next person, but one thing I’ve learned, when ever I get knocked down, I get back up to survive. And, that’s all of you out there.
How much adversity have you had to face? What’s your motivation to stand back up and keep fighting? Besides diet and exercise, what ever is going on in your life, get off the couch and do something about it.
Take back control of life because yesterday is gone, today will end, but tomorrow will be better. It’s time to put your blinders on and only look forward. I know it’s difficult, but let go of the past mistakes and be happy with all your accomplishments.
One thing we can all share is the ability to be kind, generous, loving and respectful to others. No matter what struggles you’re dealing with, all you have to do is get off the couch and do something about it.

By David Tepera, March 5, 2025

First of all, I’ve been fortunate to weight train one of the top officials in the Houston Rodeo. I’m keeping the name anonymous per his request. One of the great perks from my friend is rodeo tickets from any artist my wife wants to see.
He is in the corporate world and uses his weight training to not only create confidence, but to bring a presence of power in board room meetings.
Anyway, I thought I would share some interesting and fun facts about our Houston Rodeo.
The word “rodeo” is loosely derived from the Spanish word for “round-up” or rodear. The word rodeo became popular in 1834 to round up cattle, and the first recorded rodeo was held in Arizona in 1864.
The rodeo is the largest cultural event in Houston each year. In 2024, there were over 2.5 million attendees. The rodeo was originally called the Houston Fat Stock and Livestock Exposition, and was created to revitalize the cattle industry during the Great Depression.
The official Houston Rodeo began in 1932, more than $630 million has been committed to the youth of Texas and education. Each year, more than 800 scholarships are awarded to Texas students.
In 2022, the Grand Champion Steer sold for $1 million, setting a rodeo record. In 1997, the state legislative designated rodeo as the official sport of Texas. Women joined the circuit in the 1890’s. There are 25 colleges and universities in Texas with rodeo programs that compete in the National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association.
Bull riding in the rodeo’s most popular sport and the most dangerous. A bareback rider can take as many hard hits in eight seconds as a professional football player does in an entire game.
If you’ve ever heard the term “cowboy-up”, it’s because these rodeo athletes are known as some of the toughest competitors on the planet.
Weighing 1,600 pounds and known to knock pro bull riders off in less than a second, Bodacious is still known as the “Rankest Bull of all Time”, and was inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame in 1999.
For all you foodies, 125,000 turkey legs will be consumed, along with 80,000 funnel cakes, 45,000 tamales, 30,000 barbecue sandwiches, and 365,000 deep-fried Oreos. So obviously, if you get the opportunity to experience Texas culture, throw your diet out the window and cowboy-up.

By David Tepera, February 23, 2025

My nephew Logan competes in marathons and triathlons all over the world. He was even invited to run the Olympic marathon path in Paris last year.
Years ago, when Logan started his journey for long distance runs, he reached out to me for advice from nutrition to training.
The advice that made the biggest impact to Logan was understanding that with each practice run, you must take more steps than before. There will be times where you want to stop from exhaustion, but if you just take a couple of more steps, you reached a greater distance than from quitting. Okay, I’m not sure if you’re understanding my point, but Logan did.
Now, what ultimate goals are on your list? Almost all of us would like to lose some body fat. One of the biggest mistakes people make is jumping into an extreme diet program. Can you count how many fad diets you’ve failed, including the money invested?
As you know, we give weight training and nutrition advice all over the country. But, it is much simpler than you think. Quit being so hard on yourself and just take small steps.
People are always surprised, as a former professional physique competitor, I never weighed my food or counted calories. That includes for my wife Tina and our son Dylan who was an undefeated teen champion.
Look, you already know the unhealthy bad habits you’ve developed. What’s the one small step that would have an impact today? Is it eliminating donuts or sugar coffee drive throughs in the morning? How about late snacking on chips and cookies in the evening?
I know many people who are addicted to eating at the grease pit each day. How about giving up the fries on occasion. Or, take off the top bun of your burger to intake less carbs.
Another mistake most people make is wanting to throw in the towel of dieting because you had a bad day. Don’t give up, just pick back up tomorrow. You’re human and mistakes is part of our life to develop experiences.
Fall back in love with yourself and realize how amazing you are. We are our greatest and worst critic. I promise, there are plenty of people who find you attractive, as long you are kind to others.
So, today, pick out a couple of small steps and enjoy the journey to a greater distance. Just stay happy along the way.

By David Tepera, February 19, 2025

Every day, we are making countless decisions that affect our lives. So, are you getting paid from all the hard work and dedication, or paying for the past destructive behavior?

Now, let’s think about this because your current status is from every decision ever made. Some of my past decisions cost me more money than I’d like to admit. Once I matured, I realized losses were only lessons to make me stronger.
Even today, Tina and I have learned that when situations don’t go our way, it’s because a better plan is heading towards us. All you have to do is stay positive and attract goodness into your life.
Listen, if you are paying for bad decisions from the past, then how will you overcome them? What discipline is needed to move forward and leave the past behind you? Besides habits, you might need to change your social circle.
Like I told my kids when they were teenagers, “you are who your friends are”. Who ever you’re running around with, that’s what others opinions are of you. Chose your friends wisely.
How would you rate your health? Are you paying for prescriptions and doctor’s appointments because you chose to not exercise and eat from the grease pit?
I know there are exceptions when it comes to diagnoses, but if you’re honest, you know what I’m pertaining too. Again, I’m not casting stones because I’ve lived life to it’s fullest when I was younger.
Just know, your future relies on the decisions of today, so what’s your next step?
The next time you go into work, be the most positive and helpful employee of all. Don’t let anyone out work you. Ask or find extra projects, be the happiest person in the building, then the promotions and pay raises will come your way.
Your body is your temple. How will you treat it today? Are you abusing your body with bad decisions, or exercising, eating healthy foods, and staying hydrated with water?
Believe me, I understand the struggle of keeping a healthy diet. America has a fast-food grease pit on every corner. There’s a reason donut shops open at five am. Convenience and laziness is our enemy.
Come on, you can make today the beginning of better decisions. Each day it get’s easier because you are on a mission to get paid. You got this.

By David Tepera, February 12, 2025

Hey there everyone. How do you feel today? Make this your best day? If not, why not? We all face challenges in life, but so what? Don’t let other’s negative behavior bring you down because this is your day. Sometimes, you must flick things off your shoulders and go about your way.
What brings a smile to your face? When I get a little sad, I think about all the joy and memories with my family. We have countless treasured life time experiences together.
When’s the last time you acted goofy and silly? Who’s the biggest clown in the family? For us, it’s divided between me and my daughter Daylyn.
Once you can laugh at yourself, then you’ll enjoy life so much better.
Well, even though age has crept up on some of us, it doesn’t mean this couldn’t be your best day. Let go of all the aches, pains, and worries for the day. Throw your hands in the air like you just don’t care. Hmm wonder where I got that line from?
“Girl, you’re amazing just the way you are. I could dance the night away. Because I’m happy; clap along if you know what happiness is to you.” The multiple uplifting songs are endless. What’s your happy song?
Do you realize you have the power to make this the best day for others? Over the past few weeks, I had the privilege to enjoy lunch with several old friends that I haven’t seen in years. Lois Carelock is still the beautiful person I knew growing up with her sons. It was an honor to be in the presence of an amazing lady. Our time together was precious, plus a friendship to last eternally.
It was enjoyable catching up with my old high school buddy and team mate Alan Hutchings. We both competed on the swim and water polo team at LaMarque. You probably recognize Alan’s name for he is the owner of A&A Machine Shop. Spending time with Alan was my best day that day.
And of course, taking the time this past weekend to help my mom Eileen Tepera with chores needed around the house was another special treat. It’s always a great day to see and hug mom.
What ever is going on in your life, take the time to step away from the negatives and let this be the best day, so rejoice.

By David Tepera, January 2, 2025

Humans are naturally routine people. Sticking to a regimen helps keep us balanced and less stressed. For most of us, when we face certain situations, it takes us out of our comfort zone. Through life’s experiences helps to battle and conquer unexpected circumstances.
Now, sometimes, it’s necessary to step away from your current routine to make healthy changes. Bottom line, did you create a healthy program or another excuse?
How many days and hours do you exercise? How many meals per day are considered healthy? How much daily water do you intake? Only you can answer those questions honestly. Believe me, all the people you give excuse to are rolling their eyes behind your back.
Don’t let excuses define you anymore. That’s the easy way out because it doesn’t require any effort. We have elderly clients come to us with a variety of ailments. From severe arthritis, cardiac conditions, plus multiple related health issues.
At this time, we humble ourselves with a 100 percent success rate changing all our client’s quality of life. Even those who limped in with canes and walkers. All it takes is consistency and dedication.
That’s my message to you today. What ever your current status may be, what new program can you create to make life better?
I have posted this many times before, but you must find a way to get involved in weight resistance. Yes, that means, lifting weights. I promise, this is the game changer.
As we get older, our muscles atrophy, our bones become brittle, but you can reverse it through a consistent and proper weight program. All our female clients, of all ages, have increased bone density from lifting weights. It’s as easy as that.
Find the closest gym that fits your budget. Sign up for a short membership to see if it’s comfortable for you. If it is, then make a longer commitment.
This goes the same with personal trainers. If you utilize a trainer, then only sign for a few sessions. You’ll know quickly if this person is right for your needs. Just know, some will offer discounts by signing a much longer commitment. Just wait, you’ll thank me later.
Listen, throw all your excuses out the window. No matter what circumstances your facing today. You are alive and have total control of you. If you count, I have used the word “you” over twenty times in this article.
Today, your life just changed. All it takes is creating a healthy program.

By David Tepera, January 28, 2025

One of the most popular words spoken is “I can’t”. Why is that and what’s your excuse? What happened in your life to lose confidence?
When my children were young and participating in many physical activities, there were many times they would get discouraged and tell me “I can’t”. Failure was never accepted, so they had to stay persistence until success was accomplished.
You might not be able to hit a curve ball, or serve an overhand volleyball today, but if you keep saying in your mind that “you can”, then you’ll eventually succeed.
How many of you decided to quit too early? Quitting is the easiest decision we could ever make. There’s no effort to walk away and give up. Sometimes, we have to put a game face on and keep swinging. Even if you lose, you’ll have pride knowing you gave it your best.
Today, giving up is not your character anymore. It’s time to buckle up, put your helmet on and say “yes I can”.
What changes are needed in your life? What’s holding you down? Forget about what other’s think. This is your life and you have total control. What ever excuse you keep using doesn’t exist anymore.
Today, you’ll be stronger than ever before. You’ll break through any barrier standing in your way. Put your blinders on and stay focused on “I can”.
We all regret decisions in the past, but don’t let that define you. Of course, I still look back at the bone-head I once was, but now, I know I can accomplish any goal chosen.
What I’m trying to relay is to let the past go because you can make life changing decisions today.
There was a time that I would wear a rubber-band around my wrist. Every time I would have negative thoughts, I would snap the rubber-band and say to myself “quit your stinking thinking because you’re better than that”.
Come on now, stop being hard on yourself. See the beauty you possess and start pouring kindness and love to others. Once you realize how you impact the world around you, you’ll realize there’s no more “I can’t” because “you can”.