By David Tepera, December 7, 2022

If you ever pay attention to the statistics of professional athletes, you will notice they typically have more failures than successes.

For example; if a baseball player’s batting average is better than .300, then he’s doing well. That means he is hitting the ball three out of 10 at-bats. So, obviously, he’s striking out more than hitting, but those three hits made an impact.

Right now, the biggest sport being played is FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. There are a lot of people who struggle watching soccer because of the low scores. This is because of continual failures throughout the entire game.

The USA team beat Iran 1-0 in order to advance the next round. How many times did both teams drive the ball down the field only to have the opponent steal the ball back? The entire game was a series of failures with USA winning by scoring only one point.

Just know, professional soccer games are 90 minutes long with a halftime. But, with accumulated stoppages, the game will last around three hours. So, think about sitting around for three hours for only one goal? Obviously, there were plenty more failures than successes.

Now, how many times have you failed this year? The year is almost over, and where have your failures landed you? If you’re giving life your best, then failure should have you sitting in a better position.

Have you ever tried to start your own business? You can ask every successful business owner, and they’ll give you a list of failures during their journey. Also, possible failures still exist, but because of experience, they can be handled properly.

How many diet and exercise programs have you failed? New Years is around the corner, and you’re getting ready to start another one. The only way it will succeed is if you learned lessons from previous failures.

Just know, your whole life has been nothing but continual failures. How many years did you study for an education? Did you ever try to learn an instrument? What about sports and athletics?

To succeed and be good at anything takes time, practice, dedication and plenty of failures.

Hopefully, I’m making sense to you today because if you don’t like where you are in life, then it’s time for more failures.

Now, quit sitting on the bench and hoping success will fall in your lap. It’s time for you to create and build your own productive life. All you got to do is get out there and fail.

By David Tepera, November 30, 2020

There’s not one of us who can’t escape difficult situations. Some of these are self-inflected, while others are not.

Throughout my younger adult life, I was ambitious, including making steps forward and seemed to be on a good path. But, then I would make a bonehead mistake, and it would set me back again. I was one of those “two steps forward and one step back” kind of guys. It got so frustrating, but I knew it was from immaturity.

I think we all know the definition of stupidity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different outcome. I finally figured out that I was the problem and it was time to become the solution.

Today, I’m in the best relationship I could ever imagine with my wife Tina. Our business is impacting so many lives that we are expanding in 2023. My kids are happy and are productive citizens in their occupations and community.

Listen, I know it sounds like I’m bragging, but I’m also aware that my next problem is around the corner.

OK, so what problems are you facing today? What situations have you gotten yourself into? Sometimes, we want to point the fingers at others, but if you really think about it, you put yourself in that environment.

It was your decision to drink too much alcohol, take the pills or do drugs. It was you who chose to spew mean words at someone that now you regret.

Are you having problems at work? Which path do you choose — to be the “go-to” employee or the whiner?

I once worked for a medical company at which one of the sales reps did nothing but complain at every meeting. Our company was growing, including a great commission package. We were all making good money except for this slacker. Of course, within a year’s time, his lack of work ethic got him fired. Bottom line, he was the problem and chose not to be the solution. Don’t be that guy.

Now, are you ready to become the solution? Quit hanging out with deadbeats and put yourself in a positive environment. You have total control of your destiny. No more setbacks.

Remember, you might be the problem, but starting today, you’ll be the solution. Now, get out there and kick some butt.

By David Tepera, November 23, 2022

When people come to our gym with hopes of changing their lives, we make them understand that reaching physical goals takes time. It took years to get out of shape, so don’t expect results overnight. Together, we will get your quality of life back, but remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Just stick to the program and stay consistent and you’ll be amazed that at any age or medical condition, you’ll get back to enjoying life again.

We help people understand that each training session doesn’t get easier, it gets better. For those of you who are older or have physical limitations, make sure your trainer or training programs are stimulating the body, not annihilating.

There are plenty of gyms and trainers to choose from, so do your homework and find the best fit for your needs.

After one of my guest speaking appearances, a man challenged me about Usain Bolt being the fastest sprinter in the world. He was letting me know that sometimes a sprint can change your life instead of a marathon.

Even though this gentleman was correct with the statistic, there was an important aspect he needed to understand. Yes, Bolt is the fastest human in the world with record holdings in the 100- and 200-meter runs. But, if you research Bolt, he explains how it took four years of training to be able to sprint 100 meters in 9.58 seconds.

So really, his sprint was a marathon in order to be the best in the world. Where would you be if you trained hard for four years?

Look, your whole life is a marathon. What experiences did you learn from your childhood? It doesn’t matter how good or bad your situation was, it comes down to how, as an adult, you respond to it.

Every failure taught us a lesson to be stronger. How many times have you been knocked down? That number should equal how many times you got back up — plus one.

The marathon that life gives us is not a straight and easy path. How many hills have you climbed? It’s difficult to be the king of the mountain when life wants to throw you down the hill.

When running a marathon, there are so many obstacles along the way, but that’s the beauty of crossing the finish line because you conquered everything in your path.

Now, shut your laptops and get up. Your race is nowhere from being over. Step over the road blocks, and bust through obstacles because life is a marathon, not a sprint.

By David Tepera, November 16, 2022

Throughout our lives, including every day, we make multiple choices that impact our lives. Some could be life-altering and others might seem small, but each choice is yours to make.

Just know, quitting is the easy out, and that’s why so many people choose it. All you have to do is walk away and stop trying. Admit it, there are situations and possibly goals that you gave up on that are still haunting you today. That’s because a quitter never wins and winners never quit.

We can’t take back the past. We can only live in the present and prepare for the future. Your only option for the things you quit on is to wrap them up as an experience. Remember, experiences are valuable lessons.

Now, it’s time to throw away the quitter attitude. Once you’ve quit something, it’s easier to quit everything. From now on, winning is the only option.

Winning is not easy. It takes drive, sacrifice, a strong attitude and not caring what others think. Winners always make it to the top. That’s why there is only one winner and endless amounts of losers.

Where do you want to be today? Are you tired of watching others fly by you? What’s it going to take to step up your game? Bottom line, stop being known as a quitter.

Yes, you are going to lose more than you will win. But, it takes the attitude of digging in deeper to accomplish winning.

Are you happy and comfortable with your current employment and income? What’s your game plan to get the promotion or pay raises? Do you just fly under the radar or are you ready to get noticed by supervisors?

How’s your health? This is one aspect of your life you have total control. Being in orthopedics, I can’t tell you how many times I heard a woman say she is overweight because of being “big-boned.” I’m sorry ladies, being involved in over 3,000 knee replacements, I never witnessed a big-boned lady.

Come on now, don’t get mad at me. Take back your life and start exercising. Let others be lazy and just fade away, but not you.

Quitters love to hang around each other because it makes them feel good about themselves.

Break away and get your game face on because quitters never win and winners never quit.

By David Tepera, November 9, 2022

None of us have a crystal ball, but we would like to know what’s in our future.

Are there financial opportunities, loving lasting relationship, or maybe, just a long healthy life? What’s in your future that you are hoping for? Do you feel that you’re on the right path? Are things lining up for you?

If you really want to know what’s happening in your future, then check your habits. Do you have a plan or are you just winging it? Do you get up early every morning to conquer the day or are you always running late? Do you spend your spare time finding ways to better yourself or are you scrolling social media? Are you developing good habits or still stuck with bad habits?

Now, it’s time to break the negative cycle. You might need to get rid of certain friends. Remember, you are what your friends are. Don’t worry about what others think. Go out there, chase your dreams and create your future.

I know people addicted to Amazon spending sprees. How many of you have boxes delivered each week? Do you really need the newest and latest gadget? How many extra clothes and shoes will you wear? That money could be utilized, invested or saved in more productive areas.

Look, it’s OK to splurge on yourself every once in a while, but there are those of you who have a problem. Bottom line, it’s just another bad habit. Why not save it for a memorable vacation?

Listen, I’m not trying to act like I’m the perfect investor and money saver. I’ve made more bad decisions and investments than I’d like to admit. But, I finally matured and fell on my face enough to learn from experience.

What about you? What habits do you need to change? Are you on the right path because you have a strong personality and work ethic?

We all have something we want burning deep in our core. Through time, we get complacent with our lives, and lose that driving desire.

Today, things are going to change for you. Where would you like to be in five years or even one year from now? Are you further ahead than a year ago?

The crystal ball is in your hands. Look deep into the future and recognize that successful person you’ve become. This all happened because you changed your habits.

By David Tepera, November 2, 2022

We all have the ability to possess attributes and traits that drive us forward to success. But, for those who just can’t seem to get over the edge and better themselves, then you must use the word “stop.”

It’s time to stop sleeping too late, stop caring what others think, stop scrolling social media, stop eating junk food, stop listening to negativity and stop whining and complaining.

How many of these characteristics do you need to eliminate? I’m sure if you could get rid of just one, your life will be in a better place.

Why are you continuing to hit the snooze button? Flip your thinking and get excited about starting the day. Every day will be more productive than yesterday.

Stop caring about what others think. Most people don’t want you to succeed, so they can feel better about themselves. Stay ambitious and leave them in your dust.

I know social media is addictive, but you must find a way to stop getting sucked into it. If you’re having trouble getting away, then look for positive sites with uplifting messages. I’m actually on a few of them when I need a spiritual boost.

How bad do you need to make changes to your diet. Aren’t you sick of eating greasy foods? Don’t you feel sluggish and tired all day? Stop driving through the grease pit to and from work. Try to, at least, buying something you think is healthy at a grocery store each week. You’ll start to feel better and this will progress to healthier habits.

In today’s society, how often are we bombarded with negativity? It’s all around us, but don’t allow it to grab ahold of you.

Tina and I stopped watching regular TV and listening to certain radio stations years ago. We will catch a Netflix type series for entertainment every so often. Also, Tina creates a variety of music playlists that we enjoy without all the negative commercials.

Now, what’s in your life that needs the word “stop?” How can you better your life today by eliminating something or someone? When a negative situation arises, don’t get suckered into it, just stop and change direction.

Today is going to be the first day of your new life. From now on, the only direction is forward. Nothing can stand in your way to success because you know how to shout “stop.”

By David Tepera, October 26, 2022

If you are observant, you’ll notice that when people are on top, others will find ways to put them down.

This world is full of internet bullies because they don’t have the drive or ambition to better themselves. Really, it comes down to just plain laziness. So, for all you successful people, let the hate slide off like hot butter in a Teflon pan.

Being in the health and fitness industry and as professional athletes, we’ve seen plenty of jealous people try to point fingers and make excuses for others’ accomplishments.

Never let people bring you down. The best response is no response. Don’t say a word, stay in your lane, and stay focused on goals. Remember, nothing can stick to you unless you let it.

Keep losing the weight, and continue your plan of exercising and eating healthy. Be proud and feel good about yourself because you’ve separated from the new norm of obesity.

Also, there are those in higher power and in decision making positions. People will challenge you and try to take you down. Stand your ground and principles, and let the negativity roll off your shoulders.

Right now, life expectancy in America is 79 years of age. Most people work until retiring around 70. This means, you only have nine years left of living, and are probably so out of shape, you can’t enjoy it.

It’s time to start living now. Don’t worry about what others think — take vacations, splurge on yourself, go to nice restaurants and maybe some dancing. I don’t know what’s all out there, but there is something you want to do, so do it!

Look, this is your life. There’s no dress rehearsal. Each day gone is a day lost. Nothing is more valuable to you than your time. As we get older, we realize our time is moving fast and we start feeling the aches and pains of our experiences. This doesn’t mean to start throwing in the towel. No, it’s our wakeup call to start living.

There’s no more time for excuses. I don’t care of your age, medical condition or finances. Get off the couch and get excited about your new life.

You are now the role model and inspiration for friends and family. You have taken your life back and letting all the hate talk roll off because your skin is thick and made of Teflon.

By David Tepera, October 25, 2022

Whenever we buy fresh peach jam or other fruits, we listen for the seal to break from the twist of the lid. Once the jar is opened, then the enjoyment of sweets begin.

This could be said for uncorking a bottle of your favorite wine or liquor. Whatever pleasures your taste, breaking the seal is the beginning.

What’s important for you to understand is what happens when you break the seal in life. Every one of us has broken the seal that led us to victory or defeat.

Lets’ start with defeat. Have you noticed that once you’ve cancelled an appointment, it get’s easier and more frequent? Over the many years, we had a few clients who randomly cancel a training session. But, very quickly, it escalated to almost each week. They broke the seal to defeat, so we let them go. This can be said with every business.

How many of you are late for work every day because you got away with it once, so now it’s how your day starts. Just know, you’re probably on the chopping block, so quit hitting the snooze button.

It’s sad, but some people broke the seal by cheating on their spouse. This led to divorce and a broken family for children. I bet you found out that greener grass on the other side had sticker-burrs.

Now, what happens if you never break the seal? Those who don’t skip class at college will graduate on time without dropping classes and losing money.

No matter what spat you and your spouse may have, still let them know you love them. Gentlemen, bring back chivalry and open doors for your wife. Carry the umbrella as you walk them to their car in the rain. If you’ve been lacking, then it’s time to reseal the bottle of love and have a wonderful life. Find ways of creativity to strengthen the seal.

Come on now, the fastest way to success is to never break the seal. Get up early and be responsible for your actions every day. If you make a mistake, then own it. We see too many people pointing the fingers for their failures. You’re not fooling anyone but yourself.

So, today, if you’re even thinking about breaking a seal of destruction, stop right now. You already know that you’ll regret it. Don’t let bad decisions be a part of your character. You can make that change starting today.

Keep the seal closed and the lid tight because you’re better than that. All it takes is to keep pushing forward and be respectful to others and yourself.

By David Tepera, October 25, 2022

If you truly pay attention to events throughout your life, you’ll realize how the little things impacted the big things.

This happens through relationships, occupation, society, and even health and fitness.

When dieting, it’s remarkable how eliminating sugary drinks only will impact weight loss. Also, giving up carbs for dinner, or at least cutting carbs in half, will reduce fat storage. There are numerous little tricks through dieting that will promote significant weight loss.

One of the mottos we use at our gym is “It’s the little things.” Simple variations of grips, feet positions and range of motion can maximize weight lifting, plus reduce injury.

For example, for all push movements, we have clients place thumbs on top of the bar instead of wrapping. This will help keep the wrist straight to prevent injury.

It’s very common for a heavy bench presser to develop chronic wrist pain from gripping the bar improperly.

We have numerous videos with safety and proper lifting tips on our Facebook page Ageless-Muscle. Just know, it’s not how much you lift, but how you lift.

Now, what kind gestures are you doing in relationships? Remember all the little things you did to get the girl or boy?

One of the ways I won my wife over while we were courting was opening doors and treating her with respect. I told Tina that it’s not a chore to do things for her. To me, it’s an honor to make her feel like my queen. I don’t let a day go by without finding some way to show her my love though a small gesture.

How can you make little things turn to big things at your place of employment? Are you the worker who asks for extra work or projects? Do you express leadership qualities that will lead to promotions and pay raises? Get to work 15 minutes before your boss and stay 15 minutes after. I promise, this will lead to big things.

Hopefully, you all are getting my drift. I’m sure you can all think how a variety of little things led to big things.

Of course, this can all be flipped to the bad decisions we’ve made throughout the years, but let those regrets turn to lessons.

Today, you are only going to focus on the little things to enhance your life. Now, make your bed, kiss your spouse and kids, head out the door and let the big things happen.

David Tepera, October 8, 2022

No matter what stage of life you are at, there should be something you truly desire. Is it wealth, health, spiritual, relationships, business, independence and so on, according to your dreams and wants?

If you really want it, then you must see yourself already accomplishing that goal. How would you look and feel? Can you visualize it? Wouldn’t you be happy and confident knowing your hard work paid off?

The next step is to believe it. You cannot accomplish anything unless you believe in yourself. It’s a must to passionately strive for something, pour your heart into it and feel the strength come over your body.

Once you can see it, believe it — then don’t let anything or anyone stop you from doing it.

Most people want to lose weight. If so, find a picture of you when you were younger at that desired weight. Make copies and post that picture on your bathroom mirror, refrigerator and car dashboard. If not, use other people’s pictures of your desired weight. Keep your eye on the goal, and you’ll get there.

Do you have a business idea? Can you see yourself sitting in a luxurious office, along with a large staff and crew doing the work for you? You will fly around the country and world promoting your company and business plan because others want to invest in you.

Tina and I didn’t start out looking to buy a gym. But, through time, as our business model evolved, we started visualizing the perfect gym for us.

Once we found that gym, we didn’t just visualize it, we acted like we already owned it. In our minds, it was ours. Within three months we bought it, and three years later we are looking to expand.

What else do you want? What’s holding you back? Quit using excuses of I’m too old or broke. Remember, everybody is going to die, but not everyone lives. It’s time for you to start living.

Get your lazy partner or spouse off the couch and get back in this world. If you’re a widow or widower, then it’s “me-time.” Don’t give up on the dreams you once had.

Sometimes, we must go through a lot of turmoil and tragedy to prepare us for the next step.

These experiences are what’s going to help you to be strong and persevere, along with a win-and-take-all mentality.

Now, get your game face on, grit your teeth because you can see it, believe it and will do it.