The notion that zone 2 heart rate remains constant throughout a persons life is a myth perpetuated by poorly informed coaches and athletes. The reality is that age-related decline in cardiovascular function is unavoidable and significantly impacts an athletes ability to perform at a high level. So, I want to ask the obvious question that everyone seems to be dodging: how does age affect zone 2 heart rate, and why do so many coaches and athletes refuse to acknowledge the significant decline that occurs after the age of 40?
Is it because theyre afraid of losing clients or being relegated to the masters category, or is it because they genuinely believe that a good diet and consistent training can completely offset the natural decline in cardiovascular function that occurs with age? Newsflash: it cant.
The science is clear: age-related decline in cardiovascular function begins in the mid-to-late 20s and accelerates rapidly after the age of 40. This decline is characterized by a decrease in maximum heart rate, cardiac output, and aerobic capacity, all of which have a direct impact on an athletes ability to perform at a high level. So, why do so many coaches and athletes continue to ignore this reality and cling to the outdated notion that zone 2 heart rate remains constant throughout a persons life?
Furthermore, whats the point of even having a zone 2 if its not tailored to an individuals specific age and fitness level? Is it just a way to make athletes feel good about themselves, or is there some actual scientific basis for the arbitrary heart rate zones that are so widely used in the endurance community? Im calling out all the coaches and athletes who claim to be experts in the field: its time to stop ignoring the elephant in the room and start acknowledging the significant impact that age has on an athletes ability to perform.