27 Mar 2026
1h 31m

#122: You're Doing Zone 2 Wrong (Even If You Think You're Not) | Scott Johnston Round 2

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The Extramilest Podcast

The podcast explores common misconceptions about heart rate training, particularly regarding Zone 2 and high-intensity workouts. Scott Johnston emphasizes that Zone 2 training, while beneficial, is often oversimplified, especially for experienced athletes whose aerobic threshold pace has significantly increased. He cautions against excessive Zone 2 training when the gap between aerobic and anaerobic thresholds narrows, as it can lead to overtraining. The discussion also covers high-intensity training, noting that VO2 max is not the only determinant of endurance performance and that overemphasizing it can be detrimental. Drawing from personal experience and observations of elite athletes like Jakob Ingebrigtsen, Johnston highlights the importance of balancing training intensity with adequate recovery and avoiding the trap of trying to replicate professional training regimens without considering individual limitations and priorities.

Outlines

Part 1: Zone 2, Aerobic Threshold

Part 2: Intensity, VO2 Max, Recovery

Part 3: Overtraining, Health, Well-being

Part 4: Training Methods, Base Building

Part 5: Injury, Environment, Metrics

Part 6: Motivation, Process

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