What If Zone 2 Running Is Slowing You Down?

What if everything you’ve heard about zone two training is only half the story—and maybe not even the important half?

Most of us have been told that endless easy miles are the key to better running, but what if that’s only part of the picture? In this episode, I dig into the science and real-world experience behind zone two training to show where it helps, where it doesn’t, and how to build a smarter plan that fits a busy life. You’ll learn how to avoid common mistakes, use the right mix of efforts, and keep your body healthy while still getting faster. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or just want running to feel better, this breakdown will help you train with more purpose and less guesswork.

Key Takeaways

1. Zone two training isn’t a magic fix. Most runners need a mix of intensities to get stronger, faster, and stay injury-free.
2. Easy runs can help build endurance, but pushing too much zone two can lead to burnout or stalled progress.
3. Smart training balances effort, recovery, and time, making each workout count for real-life schedules and goals.

Timestamps

• [00:51] What You'll Learn
• [01:31] What is Zone 2
• [03:10] What the Science Actually Supports
• [03:30] Run Science Nerd Break #1
• [04:59] A Smarter Training Week
• [07:18] 4 Run Week vs 3 Run Week
• [08:02] Run Science Nerd Break #2
• [08:48] The Key: Precision Over Volume
• [09:08] Use This To Develop Zone 2, Zone 3 and Zone 4
• [09:30] Why This Matters
• [11:37] What Coaches Think
• [15:33] Use This To Train Smarter Weekly

Links & Learnings

• 📈 Get your free 8-week improve sub threshold training plan here https://dlakecreates.com/subthresholdfree
• 🎧 Listen, read and learn more here https://dlakecreates.com/zone2lies
• How to improve your zone 2/low hr/maffetone pace, go faster easier - https://dlakecreates.com/run-fast-in-zone-2-heart-rate/
• How to improve your vo2 max - https://dlakecreates.com/vo2-max-training-runners/
• Kristi Storoschuk Narrative Review on Zone 2 Training - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40560504/
• Brady Holmer on Substack - https://substack.com/@bradyholmer
• Steve Magness - https://www.stevemagness.com/
• Instagram – https://instagram.com/dlakecreates
• Strava – https://www.strava.com/athletes/120507

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