Why Training Zones Matter
Training zones help you structure your training and ensure you're working at the right intensity to reach your goals. Each zone has different physiological effects and contributes in different ways to your overall fitness.
Zone 2 is especially important for cyclists because it builds the foundation for all other training. Here you improve your body's ability to use fat as an energy source, increase the number of mitochondria in your muscles, and develop a solid aerobic capacity.
To get the most out of Zone 2 training, use a heart rate monitor or power meter to ensure you stay in the right intensity range. Many people make the mistake of training too hard - if you can't speak in full sentences, you're outside Zone 2.