By David Tepera, March 30, 2022

I don’t know who to give credit for this statement because I’ve heard it at different times throughout my life, especially during my martial arts career.

So, let’s think about this quote, “sometimes a teacher, but always a student.” What meaning does this have for you? Yes, we can feel like we are the expert on certain subjects and particular jobs, but isn’t there always more to learn?

At our gym, with me being the oldest instructor, along with having an orthopedic background, I’m known as the master of knowledge for all our clients and trainers.

I’m also constantly teaching my wife Tina and our son Dylan how to train people with specific health issues. They have become incredible and knowledgeable professional trainers, plus they are experts within their own right.

As much as I would like to toot my horn, I’m also very humbled to realize there’s so much more to learn. This is why I frequently meet with a very well known orthopedist.

We go over X-rays, MRIs, multiple surgical repairs and so on. This surgeon has become my mentor, as I’m their student. And no, we are not violating any HIPAA laws.

How about you? Whatever your occupation and passion may be, isn’t there more to learn? Would this extra knowledge change your life? Could you make more income or become more successful in helping others?

What value do you behold? The world is constantly changing, along with every industry. Are you staying up with the latest technology in your field? Do you realize to not stay stagnant and keep pursuing knowledge?

I once read one of Henry Ford’s books. In it, Ford stated that he wasn’t the expert in all the details to build the finest car. But, what he was good at was hiring and surrounding himself with people who are the experts. This is why he became one of the richest men in his era.

Think about his advice. The only personal trait Ford cared about when hiring someone is their credentials. Only the best got the job, and they were paid handsomely for it.

Now, what changes are you going to make today? Isn’t it time to learn more and build your own brand? Just remember, the only way to jump ahead in life is to realize “sometimes a teacher, but always a student.”

By David Tepera, March 23, 2022

A very common statement we hear from women who inquire about lifting weights is, “I don’t want to get too big.” We do understand your thinking, but it’s only a myth. Let’s be realistic, that statement is only an excuse.

Unless, you have certain genetic traits, women’s muscles will never grow too big. My wife Tina possesses those genetics because of her amazing shoulders, back and arms. This is what helped her win pro cards while in her mid-40s.

But, also know, besides the genetic gift, for women and men, the only way to grow large muscles is by lifting heavy and eating every two hours on a high caloric diet. It is challenging, along with discipline and hard work. Of course, there’s more to it, but these are the basics. And no, I’m not pertaining to performance enhancing drugs.

I once read that a man approached Arnold Schwarzenegger and told him, “I will never want to look like you.” Schwarzenegger’s reply, “don’t worry, you never will.”

Bottom line ladies, your muscles won’t get too big, but you’ll love the look of being toned and athletic. How much more comfortable would you be wearing sleeveless shirts? Spring and summer are here, so it’s time for shorts and skirts, too.

What other areas in your life do you want to grow big? Most of us would like to make more money. What steps have you taken to grow your income? Does this require putting in overtime, starting a second job or going to night school? It takes hard work to grow financially.

Besides us, we have many friends who started their own businesses. The one common denominator each of us possessed was hard work. There are many of you who can relate to discipline and dedication of 24 hours a day and seven days a week.

Whatever your goal is, just know, we all have hard work genetics. Our ancestors had difficult lives, so they passed on the gene of survival. This is embedded deep into your soul and body.

Now, get off the couch, shut your laptops and get back in the fight of life. No longer will you accept status quo because today you’ll knock off the dust and dig into survival mode.

This time, you’re not only going to get big, but you’ll be huge from all the hard work.

Lastly, I’d like to wish my amazing wife a happy anniversary. I love you.

By David Tepera, March 17, 2022

Is life giving you battles? We all have a variety of obstacles we face each day. These could be financial, relationships, occupation and even the death of a loved one.

Of course, any of these could lead to depression. Just know, you’re not the only one out there battling through life. What you must remember is to keep pushing through it. You can’t stop in the middle of the battle. I promise, the reward is on the other side, so keep up the fight.

If you got sucker punched, get back up and start swinging. Yes, the world doesn’t always seem fair, but if you stay in the fight, you will win.

I’m like you. I’ve been through bankruptcy, deaths of loved ones, divorce and even a five-year child custody battle. All of these situations wore me down mentally and physically, but I never gave up.

As I’ve stated, the reward is on the other side. In the end, I won custody of my kids, was offered a better paying job, learned to honor death and found my eternal soul mate, Tina.

What’s your battle today? Of course, as we get older, health issues will find us. Have you been diagnosed with a particular disease? I’m sure the doctors have laid out a plan to find victory. There’s no stopping in the middle of the battle and giving up. No, you must come out fighting through exhaustion and find a way to conquer.

As you know, most of our clients at Ageless Muscle are in their 60s, 70s and 80s. Each client has personal health obstacles. Besides many with joint replacements and osteoarthritis, there are those recovering from a variety of cancers. This is male and female.

All of these clients chose to stay in the battle and take back their quality of life, and you should, too. What steps are you taking today? Are you tired of getting beat up?

Remember, you’re not a loser. You’re a winner who’s still in the battle. Don’t let time be a factor in your journey. As long as you’re fighting, time will be on your side.

This is your day because when times get tough, keep pushing through it and you’ll find victory.

By David Tepera, March 10, 2022

Recently, I was training one of my older clients, named Carole. She has one hip replacement; plus we are trying to prevent, or at least prolong, another. During her training session, we started listing other aches and pains we both endure each day.

Finally, Carole looked up and said, “Momma said growing old isn’t for sissies.” We had a good laugh and realized that her momma was spot on.

For all you youngsters, us older folk don’t hop out of bed ready to take on the day. Nope, it takes time for our old bodies to warm up. Like many of you, my joints sound like Kellogg’s cereal in the morning with plenty of “snap-crackle-pop.”

There’s no secret, as we get older, the body starts breaking down, including the pains from previous injuries coming back.

So, what’s the message? We all know the importance of exercise and a healthy diet. If you’ve been reading my column long enough, you know how much I express adding weight training to your routine.

I’ve heard many a time from people who won’t exercise because of joint pain. I understand your joints are hurting, but weight resistance will help build the muscles around the joint. It’s these muscles that will protect and slow down the arthritis wear and tear.

Just know, cartilage will not repair itself or regrow. This is because there’s no blood supply that reaches cartilage. Cartilage will continue to wear down over time, and the speed of wear will depend on genetics, injuries or trauma and obesity.

Now, what aches and pains are you experiencing? Are you taking a bunch of prescription pills? Yes, I understand prescriptions might be necessary, but have you incorporated weight training?

All our older clients not only reduce pain meds, but blood pressure, diabetes and other prescriptions as well.

Don’t accept getting weaker and frail because you’re older. Don’t let the wheelchair be your final destiny. Don’t throw in the towel to life because you’re better than that.

We all know people who let their ailments become their identity. All they can talk about is what’s hurting and the next doctor’s appointment. Don’t let this be you.

If you are this person, then it’s time to change your mindset. Put on your boxing gloves and start swinging at Father Time. Shut your laptops, and get off the couch. Show everyone that you are taking back your quality of life.

Remember, just like Carole’s momma said, “Growing old isn’t for sissies.”

By David Tepera, March 2, 2022

Recently, I took my 21-year-old daughter Daylyn out for lunch. Along the way, she plugged her music playlist into my truck stereo. To my surprise, we were listening and singing along to Earth, Wind & Fire. Obviously, a group from the late 1970s, which brought me back to my high school days.

Daylyn told me she’s been enjoying the sounds of early years through the 1990s. We had a blast seeing who knew the words to the music, plus laughing along the way because neither of us can carry a tune. Sorry, Daylyn, but it’s true.

On the way back home, Daylyn played one of her new favorites — Michael Jackson’s song “Man in the Mirror.” Well, this turned out to be a daddy-daughter lesson. I asked Daylyn if she really paid attention to the words and their meaning? Her answer: “Not really, I just started learning the words.”

I want to share my message to Daylyn with all of you. Listen, this world and our environment are on an unpredictable path. The only thing you can truly control is yourself. Quit making excuses and blaming others for your weakness.

When you are happy with yourself, then you wish the best for all others. If you can’t get out of your funky attitude, then start exercising, along with a better diet. This will immediately impact your attitude. And don’t forget there’s a higher power to pray to. Bottom line, you must find a way to become a better person in our society.

“Man in the Mirror” starts off with a man who wants to make a change for once in his life. He knows it’s going to feel good to make a difference. He sees people who are underprivileged and need a break. The only way to change the world is starting with the man in the mirror.

Why can’t we embrace our neighbors, brothers and sisters? Why not use the same hand that points fingers — to pick someone up?

It’s amazing how the little things can put a smile on people’s face. Tina, the kids and I open doors for everyone, greet people with respect and give compliments.

What changes can you make today? What lessons are you teaching your children? Are you an asset to our society or another laptop bully?

Today, let’s make a decision to make a change in our world. Just remember, it starts with the man in the mirror.

By David Tepera, February 23, 2022

There’s no secret — we all know that we only have so much time on Earth. Of course, none of us knows exactly how much time that is. That’s why we must understand the value of time.

It typically takes 30 days to create a habit, but that habit can change your life for years. Take 30 minutes to an hour to exercise, and it could add time to your life.

Read a book or take a course, and you’ll have knowledge for the rest of your life. Take the time to learn a new skill, and possibly make yourself millions. Don’t waste time — think big.

There are many of us who volunteer or have occupations that require “one on one” personal help for others. As professional trainers, we take pride in changing people’s lives on a daily basis. There are many other professions that do the same.

The question is, “if someone is spending their time to help you, are you appreciative of their time?”

While my children were growing up and playing sports, I volunteered coaching multiple sports for years. It wasn’t often, but I was always taken back by how some parents would react to referees and umpires. Especially, in basketball and baseball. If you don’t like their calls and you’re such an expert, then become a referee, umpire or coach yourself.

Now, how are you spending your days? Are you reaching for improvement on a daily basis? Is your time spent with quality or another wasted day?

Just know, it’s OK to spend a day of relaxation and unwinding. But, this should be a reward for a hard and dedicated week and not just another standard day.

If not already, there will be a time in your life that you’ll lose someone very close. You’ll spend the rest of your life wishing you spent more time with them. Take that lesson now to reach out and find some quality time to build new memories.

Throughout the years, I’ve lost my two oldest sons and a father. There’s not a day that I don’t think of all of them. Even though I have wonderful memories, I wish I could hug them one more time.

Listen, time is precious and never sits still. None of us have an excuse for wasting time and putting life on hold. I understand that you have kids to raise or elderly parents to tend to, but take care of yourself along the way.

Just remember, if you can grasp the value of time, it will change your life.

By David Tepera, February 16, 2022

We can’t choose the life given to us, but we can choose the life we want to live. As children, we have no control of the environment our parents raise us in. Most of us grow up with fond memories, but we know there are those whose childhood was difficult.

When people are financially poor, they may wish for the finer things in life. Also, people who are financially rich, may wish for real loving relationships.

One thing we are all witnessing in today’s world is childhood obesity. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, from 2 to 19 years of age, the obesity average is 21.2 percent. Even more, 42.4 percent of adults are obese. To me, this is crazy. What’s happened to the American population?

Now, there’s nothing wrong with carrying a little extra fat, especially as we get older. This should be the norm, but obesity becoming popular is not acceptable.

To me, the country is getting soft and lazy. This pertains to fast food over healthy cooking, watching TV or social media over exercising, and wanting handouts over working.

What environment are you teaching your children? What life have you chosen for them? Are they going to grow up being another obesity statistic? Are you showing your kids how to work the system through laziness or work ethic? Only you can answer these questions honestly.

Yes, I’m throwing some reality at you today. Just know, for some of you, it’s time for someone to get in your face and tell you to “wake up.” You now have control of your life, so quit making excuses and step your game up.

That’s right, life will sucker punch you sometimes. But get back up and fight. We all have that “fight or flight” mechanism born within us. It’s time to quit the flight and start the fight.

You are never too old, fat or broke to get started. You already know we train lots of people in their 70s and 80s at our gym. I don’t care what your excuse is because we all have them.

Some of us can take bigger steps than others when changing our lives. But, it doesn’t matter the size of the steps as long as you’re moving forward.

Now, starting today, you should recognize that you didn’t have a choice of the life given to you, but you have the choice of the life you’re going to live.

By David Tepera, February 9, 2022

Every day is a battle because things must be accomplished. The world will not hold still and wait on you. If you don’t step into the ring, then you’ve already lost the fight.

There are a variety of battles each of us encounter each day. They are specific to our lifestyles.

Some examples are obesity and health conditions, workplace competition, bad relationships, of course, sports and so on.

Whatever your situation may be, if you really want to win the battle, then turn it into a war. War requires strategy with specific game planning. You must be all in, or you’ll lose.

I must repeat that last statement. To win the war, you must be all in — not sometimes or every once in a while. No — all in — all the time.

When Tina and I wanted to win our pro cards in physique competition, we trained for two years, seven days a week. Back then, it wasn’t easy because I was 55 years old. As you know, we won that war.

Think about every diet plan you’ve been on. Why do you keep losing that battle? It’s because you didn’t go to war by putting in a proper plan to become successful.

Remember, it’s OK to lose some battles, but in the end, you will win the war. Just remember to utilize the lessons of battles lost. So, keep your head high and continue punching.

If you own a business, who or what is your competition? What’s keeping you from taking it to another level? Maybe it’s time to regroup, replan and go to war.

If you’re an employee, what’s your war plan to get to a management position? Your work ethic will help you be chosen over other coworkers for a promotion. Step up your game.

If you’re an athlete, are you happy sitting on the bench? Do you only show up for practice and games? Do you lift weights on your own time? Do you improve your knowledge through books and videos of other teams and athletes playing in your position? Quit blaming the coach for your lack of playing time.

Now, let’s take today as a decision to quit losing battles. Accept that this is a part of our daily lives and start swinging with some haymakers. Don’t give up, and keep your game face on.

Remember, when someone or something wants to battle, give them war.

By David Tepera, February 2, 2022

One lesson I learned as an adult is to not judge people too quickly.

There’s a reason why people we don’t know are called strangers. We come from a variety of backgrounds, health habits, income differences and so on. So, if people don’t look or act like you, then leave them alone and go about your own way.

There are many of us who’ve gone through tragedies and unwelcomed situations. These experiences have molded us into our modern-day character. What’s important is learning to turn negatives into positives.

There’s a time when you need to take control of your situation. A question you must ask yourself is “am I running from something or running to it?”

We have successful self-made clients at our gym. Some of them were determined to change their lives and ran from poverty.

I know people who had enough and ran from bad relationships. So, what are you running from? Whatever it is, just remember, don’t look back. Put your blinders on and stay focused.

Now, let’s flip all this negative thinking and turn it into a positive. Quit running from sadness and start running towards happiness.

If you’re depressed for being overweight and out of shape, then take action. Find a photo of when you were your ideal weight and post it on your bathroom mirror. It’s your reminder to run towards health.

Are you running to finish college, trade school, retirement, investments, etc.?

If you’re in a difficult situation, and doing your best to run towards happiness, but life keeps throwing curve balls, then seek a higher power. God never failed me, especially when I put it all in His hands. There were many times I ran to God and He guided me through the tough times. I also make sure I give Him praise for all the good that’s in my life.

Look, don’t accept failure as a final decision. It doesn’t matter your age, health or financial status. Continue to chase dreams and make it a habit to run towards happiness. Get into motion and you’ll eventually run into success.

Today, you’ve made the decision to take control and quit running from and start running to.

By David Tepera, January 26, 2022

Typically, we all have some type of a wish list. These can be financial, travel, materialistic, health and so on. The question you must ask yourself is, “Have I gotten any closer to anything on the list?”

Now, if you’re still living with only a wishbone, then what’s preventing you from reaching your goals? Are you scared to step out of your comfort zone? Do you care what others will say about you?

Listen, whatever your situation may be, it’s time to grow a backbone and get to work. If your wish is to have something substantial, then it will require discipline.

Hopefully, you learned lessons from elders. Their lives weren’t as easy as today. Almost everything earned required manual labor.

My great-grandparents and their children were sharecroppers on a farm. They worked from sun up to sun down in the fields. The brutal heat of summer was cotton season. My father was the last Tepera to help work the fields.

My point is that our family history was built on worth ethic. I’m fortunate to have this passed down to my sister Karen and me.

Of course, as parents, we want to provide a better life for our children. But, there’s no secret, we see way too often people wanting handouts without lifting a finger. The rest of us have a backbone and go to work each day.

Where’s your backbone? Are you still making excuses for status quo? Why are you unhealthy? Are your bad habits holding you back? Why are you still in a bad relationship?

These are all serious questions that require a backbone to improve your life. It’s time to take a stand. If you do nothing today, then tomorrow is the same. Take control of your life because each day is wasted if you don’t.

For financial success, go to work early and stay later. A raise will eventually follow.

Stand up to the bully, and let them know it’s over. Bullies have an identity crisis, and you threaten them with your beauty and knowledge.

Start cooking healthy meals and quit driving through fast foods. Tie up your sneakers and start exercising. Bottom line — take control of your life.

The only way you’re ever going to truly grow and become happy is to change your wishbone to a backbone.