Las Vegas Sun

March 29, 2024

SIX QUESTIONS FOR :

Frank Lowery, Race director of annual Silverman Triathlon

Six Qs

Tiffany Brown

Frank Lowery leads a spin class at the Henderson Multigenerational Center. Lowery, who has completed 149 triathlons in 23 years, says that as a coach, he uses small goals that people can achieve to motivate them to keep working on getting fit. “Accomplishing goals makes people feel confident,” he says.

Frank Lowery

Director of the Silverman Triathalon, Frank Lowery, leads a spin class at the Henderson Multigenerational Center on Wednesday, May 6, 2009. Launch slideshow »

Frank Lowery is one of the most physically fit men in Southern Nevada. The 37-year-old Air Force veteran has completed 149 triathlons over 23 years.

These days he focuses on coaching.

He trains high-level athletes as well as folks who show up for his spin classes at the Henderson Multigenerational Center.

He’s also the race director of the annual Silverman Triathlon, held each November in Henderson.

Is it harder to stay in shape in Las Vegas because of the heat?

I don’t think so. We get nine months of decent training time and the hot months are manageable. In Colorado there’s six months of winter weather and you’re freezing all the time. I encourage people to get their workouts done early in the morning, from 5:30 to 7:30. At night wait until about 7:30. Stay hydrated and make sure you eat enough food. People lose their appetites in the heat.

Are Las Vegas residents more conscious than others about being physically fit?

A lot of people work out for cosmetic reasons related to their work. It is different from pure athletes who work out to race. There is an image that you have to keep here. In Las Vegas, it’s who you know and what you look like. Go up to Idaho and all the fit people have long hair and wear flannel shirts.

What’s a good initial goal for someone getting interested in running or triathlons?

You want to start with a 5K or a small bike race that doesn’t require much endurance. You want an event that is more social and something you can complete. Maybe the next time you go for a 10K. Make sure you warm up and stretch after your workouts.

When does a walk become effective exercise?

Legit exercise comes when you see an increase in heart rate and feel an increase in breathing. Walking can be good exercise when you increase the pace a bit. But you do have to pick up the pace.

Is the Wii Fit TV video game legitimate exercise?

No. (Laughing) I would not recommend the Wii Fit for 30 minutes a day for a good workout.

What’s your best motivational technique?

I reassure people that they can do anything. I want them to set small goals they can achieve. Accomplishing goals makes people feel confident.

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