How to find your Zone 2 Groove While Cycling

What Is Zone 2?

Zone 2 is the cardio zone that feels steady, sustainable, and effective. It doesn’t feel like a walk in the park, nor does it feel like you’re about to collapse.

You should be able to talk in Zone 2 while taking pauses between sentences to catch your breath.

For most of us, this means about 60-70% of your max heart rate. If numbers make your head spin, don't worry—think "slightly harder than a casual ride, but nowhere near race pace."

Why Should Cyclists Care About Zone 2?

Zone 2 is important because it uses the fat around your body as fuel, builds endurance, and boosts overall cardiovascular health. It builds mitochondria in your body to give you more energy, on and off the bike!

Great quality about Zone 2 is that it doesn’t make you suffer. You just need to do a large volume of it to reap the rewards.

How to Find Your Zone 2 Groove

• Keep It Conversational: If you can hold a conversation but need to catch your
  breath every few sentences, you're there.
• Use Your Tools: Got a heart rate monitor? Use it. No monitor? Then go by feel.
• Slow Down to Speed Up: If it feels too easy at first, that's okay. Trust the process. Zone 2 cycling is about consistency, not suffering.

Why This Matters

Not every ride should make you physically collapse after hopping off the bike. In fact, it may be detrimental for your longer-term health goals.

At Civilized Bibs, we believe cycling is the best way for most people to achieve their health and fitness goals. Comfort is the foundation of which all your goals through cycling are attained, so you need proper cycling gear.

Check out Civilized Bibs cycling shorts to give you all the benefits of proper cycling bibs without wearing skin-tight lycra in public.