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Does zone 3 improve climbing endurance better than zone 2

Started by Kevins745i · · Last activity · 7 posts · 127 views

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01 / Original postDoes zone 3 improve climbing endurance better than zone 2Kevins745i · 22 Feb 2025 02 / This pagePosts 1–7Page 1 of 1 · chronological order 03 / Latest replyPost #7Kevins745i · 28 Feb 2025

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Cycling Training
Published
22 February 2025
Last activity
28 February 2025
Original author
Kevins745i
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7
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Public discussion
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Zone 2 training

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  1. Original post
    Kevins745i
    Archived post
    #1

    Whats the point of riding in zone 3 if its just going to put unnecessary stress on your body when you could be getting similar, if not better, benefits from riding in zone 2 for climbing endurance? Does anyone actually think that riding in zone 3 improves climbing endurance better than zone 2, or are we just drinking the cool-aid because thats what everyone else says? Zone 3 puts a lot more strain on your cardiovascular system, and that increased stress can lead to burnout, injury, or overtraining, which ultimately makes it harder to see improvements in climbing endurance.

    Whos to say that you cant build just as much endurance, if not more, by spending more time in zone 2 and allowing your body to recover and adapt, rather than pushing it to the limit all the time? Im starting to think that zone 3 is just the sexy zone that everyone wants to talk about, when in reality, zone 2 is the actual unsung hero of endurance training. So, lets get real, does zone 3 really improve climbing endurance better than zone 2?

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  2. nho09
    Archived post
    #2

    Hmm, let me take a stab at this. While zone 3 might feel like a cardiovascular boot camp, it doesn't necessarily mean it's the best for climbing endurance. Zone 2, the unsung hero, might be more of a tortoise than a hare, but slow and steady often wins the race, or in this case, the climb. So, is zone 3 really the secret sauce for endurance, or is it just getting too much attention? Food for thought. 🍝🚴‍♀️

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  3. rayflana
    Archived post
    #3

    Riding in Zone 3 may feel more challenging and intense, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's the superior choice for climbing endurance. Zone 2 may not be as flashy, but its benefits should not be underestimated. By training in Zone 2, you allow your body to build a solid aerobic base, which is crucial for endurance athletes. Plus, spending more time in lower intensity zones can reduce the risk of burnout and injury, allowing for consistent and long-term progress.

    Furthermore, it's important to remember that cycling is not one-size-fits-all. Different training zones work for different people, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's all about finding what works best for you and your individual goals.

    So, before jumping on the Zone 3 bandwagon, consider giving Zone 2 some love. You might just find that it's the unsung hero of your endurance training. And who knows, you might even enjoy the recovery rides a little more. 😉

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  4. sd790
    Archived post
    #4

    Riding in zone 3 isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Yes, zone 2 can build endurance and allow for recovery, but zone 3 has its place. It can help improve lactate threshold, power output, and overall fitness. However, overdoing it can lead to the risks you've mentioned. It's about striking a balance, incorporating both zones into your training regimen. Don't dismiss zone 3 entirely, but be mindful of its potential downsides.

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  5. mcdelroy
    Archived post
    #5

    Riding in Zone 3 does have its place, but it's not the only way to build climbing endurance. In fact, Zone 2 training can be just as effective, if not more, in enhancing your endurance while reducing the risk of burnout and injury. Zone 3 training can be more demanding on the body, requiring more recovery time. So, if you're looking to improve your climbing endurance, don't neglect Zone 2 training. It might not be as flashy, but it's a reliable and sustainable way to see real improvements.

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  6. ZeroAccess
    Archived post
    #6

    Riding in zone 3 may have its place, but overemphasizing it can indeed lead to needless strain. Zone 2's endurance benefits, including recovery and adaptation, should not be underestimated. It's the unsung hero, providing a steady, consistent foundation for cyclists. So, let's reconsider our devotion to zone 3 and give some love to the reliable zone 2. Muscle flex emoji.

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  7. Kevins745i
    Archived post
    #7

    Zone 3 is like that flashy bike everyone wants, but does it really deliver? I mean, we’re all chasing those gains, right? Why are we so obsessed with pushing hard when zone 2 is like the trusty workhorse? It’s all about building that solid base without wrecking yourself. Isn’t it time we stop falling for the hype and give zone 2 the credit it deserves? Who’s with me on this?

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