8 Reasons Zone 2 Is the Most Important Workout You’re Not Doing

Most athletes chase intensity.
Very few build an engine.

In this video, I break down eight reasons why a long Zone 2 session belongs in your weekly training, whether you’re a runner, CrossFit athlete, hybrid athlete, or just someone who wants to stay capable for life.

This isn’t about hype or heart rate hacks. It’s about building the kind of aerobic base that makes everything else feel easier—lifting, running, competing, and just living your life with more energy.

I filmed this during an eight-mile Zone 2 long run and walk through one reason per mile, explaining how this type of training builds durability, confidence, and longevity—especially for midlife athletes.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – What Zone 2 actually is (and how hard it should feel)
02:45 – Reason 1: Building a massive aerobic engine
07:10 – Reason 2: Mitochondrial adaptations you can’t rush
11:55 – Reason 3: Metabolic efficiency (making everything easier)
16:30 – Reason 4: Heart adaptations & lower working heart rate
21:40 – Reason 5: Fatigue resistance & time on your feet
27:10 – Reason 6: Learning to stay calm when things get uncomfortable
33:05 – Reason 7: Mental toughness & quieting the inner voice
38:20 – Reason 8: Longevity and staying capable into your later years
43:10 – Final thoughts: Why this matters more than ever in midlife

If you’re tired of feeling tired—and you want fitness that actually carries over into real life—start here.

👉 Like, subscribe, and drop a comment if you’re already doing Zone 2 or thinking about adding it to your week.