Nobody Can Agree on What 'Zone 2' Cardio Is

Cardio is a crucial part of any fitness routine. It helps to improve cardiovascular health, burn calories, and maintain a healthy weight. And while there are many different types of cardio, one that has been the subject of much debate is ‘Zone 2’ cardio.Zone 2 cardio is a term used to describe a specific heart rate zone during exercise. It’s said to be the sweet spot for fat burning and improving endurance, but the problem is that nobody can agree on what Zone 2 actually is. Some experts say it’s a heart rate range between 60-70% of your maximum heart rate, while others argue it’s closer to 70-80%.

The confusion around Zone 2 cardio has left many people unsure of how to incorporate it into their workouts. To help shed some light on this topic, let’s take a closer look at what Zone 2 cardio is, its benefits, and how to incorporate it into your fitness routine.

What is Zone 2 Cardio?

Zone 2 cardio is a heart rate zone that falls between 60-80% of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate is the highest number of beats per minute that your heart can reach during exercise.

For example, if you’re 30 years old, your maximum heart rate would be 190 beats per minute (220-30). To determine your Zone 2 heart rate range, multiply your maximum heart rate by 0.6 and 0.8. Using the same example, your Zone 2 heart rate range would be between 114-152 beats per minute (190 x 0.6 and 190 x 0.8).

What are the Benefits of Zone 2 Cardio?

One of the main benefits of Zone 2 cardio is that it’s said to be the sweet spot for fat burning. When you exercise at a moderate intensity, your body burns a higher percentage of fat for fuel compared to exercising at a high intensity. This is because your body can’t use oxygen as efficiently at higher intensities, so it relies more on carbohydrates for fuel instead of fat.

Another benefit of Zone 2 cardio is that it helps to improve endurance. When you exercise at a moderate intensity, your body becomes more efficient at using oxygen to produce energy. This means your heart and lungs get stronger, and you’re able to exercise for longer periods of time without getting as tired.

How to Incorporate Zone 2 Cardio into Your Fitness Routine

Now that you know what Zone 2 cardio is and its benefits, you may be wondering how to incorporate it into your fitness routine. Here are a few tips:

1. Use a Heart Rate Monitor

To ensure you’re exercising in your Zone 2 heart rate range, it’s helpful to use a heart rate monitor. This way, you can see your heart rate in real-time and adjust your intensity as needed.

2. Mix Up Your Workouts

Incorporating a variety of cardio workouts can help you stay motivated and prevent boredom. Try cycling, swimming, or using the elliptical to switch things up.

3. Start Slow

If you’re new to exercise or haven’t done cardio in a while, start slow and gradually increase your intensity. This will help prevent injury and ensure you’re exercising in a safe and effective manner.

In conclusion, Zone 2 cardio can be a great addition to your fitness routine. While there may be some disagreement on what exactly Zone 2 is, incorporating moderate intensity cardio into your workouts can help you burn fat, improve endurance, and maintain a healthy weight. So, why not give it a try?