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What Is Zone 2 Cardio, and How Do I Actually Do It?


Published on 2025-01-08 17:03:18 - MSN
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  • But what is zone 2 cardio, exactly? How can you make sure you're doing it right? And is it really so bad if your heart rate drifts into zone 3? Zone 2 training is cardio done at a steady, low intensity.

Zone 2 cardio refers to a moderate intensity level of exercise where the heart rate is about 60-70% of your maximum heart rate, which is often described as a pace where you can still hold a conversation but are breathing somewhat heavily. This type of training is beneficial for improving aerobic capacity, enhancing fat burning, and building endurance without overly taxing the body. The article explains how to achieve Zone 2 cardio through various activities like running, cycling, or swimming at a pace that feels comfortably hard. It also discusses the importance of not pushing too hard into higher intensity zones, which can shift the body's energy source from fat to carbohydrates, thus reducing the endurance benefits. Additionally, the article provides tips on how to measure your heart rate to ensure you're in Zone 2, including using heart rate monitors or perceived exertion scales, and suggests incorporating Zone 2 workouts into a broader fitness regimen for overall health benefits.

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[ https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/fitness-and-exercise/what-is-zone-2-cardio-and-how-do-i-actually-do-it/ar-BB1loPdA ]