Is Zone 2 Running Overrated? Understanding the Backlash Against and Science of Easy Running

About this episode

Zone 2 is the magic bullet for improved health and endurance fitness - or it is overrated and spikes your cortisol. You have likely encountered both claims on social media, and neither are correct. In this episode, we dive into the science of zone 2 for runners. We discuss how to set your zone 2 correctly, who should use it, who should ignore their heart rate zones, and what happens if you run slower than zone 2 on your easy runs. Whether you are a new runner or a marathoner, you will learn something from this episode! In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ How to use zone 2 correctly ✅ Is zone 2 a waste of time for low-volume runners? ✅ Should female runners train in zone 2? ✅ Do new runners need to use zone 2? ✅ Do you get benefits from training in zone 1? ✅ What to do if you feel you cannot run in zone 2 References 🔬PMID: 40225831 🔬PMID: 40560504 Tread Lightly Running is hosted and researched by Amanda Brooks and Laura Norris, MSc. Production, show notes, and graphics by Laura Norris. If you enjoyed this episode, you may like: 🎧 The Benefits of Using the Run-Walk Method (17 Oct 2025) 🎧 Why You Need All Training Zones to Improve as a Runner (29 Aug 2025) Let