How does a high-volume Zone 2 block impact power at lactate threshold

[BreakawayBen]

Whats the specific impact of a high-volume Zone 2 block on power at lactate threshold, particularly for riders who have previously trained using more traditional periodization methods? Does the increase in aerobic endurance and fatigue resistance translate directly to higher power outputs at LT, or are there diminishing returns at some point?

Furthermore, how does the relationship between Zone 2 endurance and LT power change as the volume of Zone 2 training increases? In other words, do riders see continued gains in LT power as they accumulate more and more Zone 2 hours, or does the rate of improvement slow down beyond a certain point?

Additionally, what role does intensity distribution play in this relationship? Do riders who focus on sweet spot training (i.e., high-intensity Zone 2) see greater gains in LT power compared to those who focus on lower-intensity Zone 2 work?

Its also worth considering how individual variability affects the relationship between Zone 2 endurance and LT power. Do riders with higher aerobic capacities tend to see greater gains in LT power from Zone 2 training, or are the benefits more evenly distributed regardless of starting point?

Finally, what are the practical implications of these findings for riders and coaches looking to optimize training programs? Are there specific Zone 2 training protocols or volume/intensity combinations that are more effective for improving LT power, and how should these be incorporated into a broader training plan?

 

[bobnuttall]

A high-volume Zone 2 block can certainly bolster aerobic endurance and fatigue resistance. But whether this directly translates to higher power outputs at lactate threshold (LT) is debatable. Some argue that there are diminishing returns, with gains plateauing at a certain point.

As for the relationship between Zone 2 endurance and LT power, it's not a straightforward correlation. While riders may see initial gains as they accumulate Zone 2 hours, the rate of improvement can slow down beyond a certain point.

Intensity distribution plays a role too. Riders who focus on sweet spot training might see greater gains in LT power, but it's not a one-size-fits-all scenario. Individual variability can affect the relationship between Zone 2 endurance and LT power. Some riders with higher aerobic capacities might see greater gains, while others might not.

In terms of practical implications, it's about finding the right balance. Specific Zone 2 training protocols and volume/intensity combinations can be effective, but they need to be incorporated into a broader training plan that takes into account the rider's individual needs and goals.

 

[UrbanRiderX]

Ah, the age-old question of how Zone 2 training impacts lactate threshold power. It's as if people think slapping on some more Zone 2 miles will automatically lead to bigger numbers on race day. *eye roll*

But alas, it's not that simple. While increasing your aerobic endurance and fatigue resistance is all well and good, the relationship between Zone 2 endurance and LT power isn't always a direct one. There are definitely diminishing returns at some point, and it's up to you and your coach to find that sweet spot.

Now, as you pile on the Zone 2 hours, you may not see a linear progression in LT power. Gains might slow down beyond a certain point, so it's essential to mix things up and incorporate different intensity distributions. Speaking of which, focusing on sweet spot training (high-intensity Zone 2) could potentially yield greater gains than sticking to lower-intensity Zone 2 work.

And don't forget about individual variability! It's not a one-size-fits-all situation. Riders with higher aerobic capacities might see greater gains, but that doesn't mean others can't benefit as well.

Practically speaking, you'll want to consider specific Zone 2 training protocols and volume/intensity combinations. There's no magic formula, but being strategic about your training can lead to substantial improvements in LT power. Just remember, more Zone 2 miles isn't always better – it's about finding the right balance for your unique situation. *wink*