This is better than discussing with my ride partners
How much of cycling training should be zone 2?
The exact amount of training in zone 2 for cycling can vary depending on an individual’s goals and current fitness level. However, generally speaking, zone 2 training, also known as endurance training, should make up the majority of a cyclist’s training time. This type of training helps to improve cardiovascular fitness and increase the body’s ability to use fat as a fuel source, which is important for endurance events. Additionally, it is recommended to include some time in higher intensity zones (zone 3 and 4) to build power, speed, and overall fitness.
But zone 2 is boring, especially indoors.
Some cyclists may find zone 2 training to be less exciting or challenging than higher intensity training, especially when training indoors. However, it is important to remember that endurance training is a crucial component of any cyclist’s training plan, as it lays the foundation for more intense and specific training later on.
To make zone 2 training more enjoyable, consider incorporating interval training. This can be done by alternating short, high-intensity efforts with longer, lower-intensity recovery periods. This type of training can provide a greater challenge and help break up the monotony of steady-state endurance training.
Another way is to mix up your indoor training with virtual reality, videos or apps that simulates outdoor routes, or even joining a virtual cycling class. Moreover, finding a training partner or joining a cycling group can make the time pass faster, and it can be fun too.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that while zone 2 training may not be the most exciting or challenging, it is an essential part of a well-rounded training plan that will ultimately lead to improved performance and greater enjoyment of the sport.
If I have limited time, should I do more zone 2 or sweet spot?
If you have limited time for training, it may be more beneficial to focus on the sweet spot training rather than zone 2.
The sweet spot is a term used to describe training at a moderate intensity level, usually around 88-93% of your Functional Threshold Power (FTP). It is considered as an optimal balance between endurance and high-intensity training and it can be a more time-efficient way to improve fitness.
Sweet spot training can help to increase power and endurance and is a great way to improve your overall cycling performance. It can also be more engaging and less monotonous than steady-state endurance training.
However, it’s worth noting that sweet spot training can be quite intense, and it’s important to make sure you have a good foundation of fitness before incorporating it into your training routine. Also, it’s always recommended to have a balance of different types of training and recovery, so it’s a good idea to also include some zone 2 training and recovery rides in your schedule.
In conclusion, if you have limited time for training, focusing on sweet spot training can be a more time-efficient way to improve your fitness, but it’s also important to keep in mind that a balanced approach with different types of training and recovery is recommended to optimize your performance.