First we build the machine. Then, we make it run.
At Northglenn Health and Fitness, we program cardio that doesn’t kill you because we coach a wide range of women. Some love cardio. Others hate it. And both groups have one thing in common:
They usually misunderstand what cardio is supposed to do and the type that they need.
If you think cardio only counts when it feels like you’re gasping for your last breath – or you’d rather take your last breath than do cardio, this post is for you.
What Is Zone 2 Cardio?
Zone 2 cardio is a steady, conversational pace where you’re working but not crushed. You could walk, bike, row, push a sled, amongst other things… and still talk.
This type of cardio, zone 2, improves the one thing most people are missing: your aerobic engine.
When you build that engine, your body gets better at:
- Burning fat for fuel
- Recovering between sets
- Powering you through strength workouts
- Handling life outside the gym (stairs, kids, groceries)
It’s not flashy, and it’s not trendy. But it works.
Still not sure it can help? Here is what the Mayo Clinic says:
Zone 2 is also known as the fat burning zone. During exercise in this zone, the body primarily uses fat as its fuel source. This enables increased fat burning compared with higher intensity exercises that rely more on carbohydrates and protein for fuel. Additionally, engaging in Zone 2 training enhances overall cardiovascular fitness levels.
For the Women Who Hate Cardio
If you’ve always thought cardio means gasping for air, red-faced and exhausted… Zone 2 will feel like a relief. This is about building stamina without joint pain or dread.
You don’t need to kill yourself to get results. In fact, that might be why you’re not getting them.
For the Women Who Love Intense Cardio
If you live for high-intensity workouts, Zone 2 might feel like a waste of time. But here’s what you need to know:
Zone 2 builds the base your body needs to perform better at everything else. Without it, your recovery suffers, your energy dips, and your body burns out.
Slowing down is actually how you go faster (and get leaner if that’s what you want) in the long run.
Why We Coach Cardio (Not Just Assign It)
Could you do Zone 2 on your own? Sure. But most people don’t. Or they go too hard. Or they skip it altogether.
That’s why we do it with you at NHF. We:
- Choose the right movement for your body so it feels good
- Coach you to the right heart rate and intensity so you are in the right zone
- Make sure your cardio supports your goals, not sabotage them, by programming you Zone 2 movements that alleviate the boredom of a boring Zone 2 cardio session
If there is one thing to know about Zone 2 Cardio that might help you take it seriously
If strength training builds your body… Zone 2 builds the engine that makes your body run better.
And we’ll help you do it right.
Interested in learning what a Zone 2 workout might be for you, or if you need help calculating your heart rate to know if you are in Zone 2 – click here and I’d love to chat and help! If you are already a personal training client at Northglenn Health and Fitness, text us and we will let your programming coach know to get you into the zone!