But now in this day and age, people are more prone to go out to try new things to enhance their performance on the field - to enhance their physical appearance.

I took a lot of things for granted - especially how I treated my body.

It's all about the attitude, gut, heart and determination to go out and give 120% every time to try and help the team win.

I guarantee you that's what Jeff Gordon does. He uses everything the fans throw at him to stoke his fire and it drives him to be better at what he does.

If I miss anything about the sport, it's the camaraderie of old teammates.

The way strength and conditioning has helped me now is that I make it a point to go to the gym everyday if I can.

But now, I get up every morning and go to the gym because I don't like waking up stiff or in pain and wondering if my hip is going to hurt me.