Cycling Training · Public discussion

How does Zone 2 training differ for climbers vs time trialists?

Started by Kathy Glover · · Last activity · 14 posts · 83 views

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Cycling Training
Published
18 May 2025
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7 June 2025
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Kathy Glover
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  1. Is it really necessary for climbers and time trialists to have different Zone 2 training protocols, or is this just a fancy way of selling more training plans and coaches? Some argue that the physiological benefits of Zone 2 training are the same regardless of discipline, and that the key differences lie in the specific demands of each type of event - i.e. short, all-out efforts for time trialists, and repeated high-intensity climbs for climbers. But if thats the case, why do so many coaches and training plans insist on tailoring Zone 2 training to the specific needs of each discipline? Is this just a matter of fine-tuning the training stimulus, or is there something more fundamental at play? And what about the riders who do both - do they need to split their Zone 2 training into two separate protocols, or can they get away with a more general approach? Can anyone point to some concrete evidence or research that supports the idea that climbers and time trialists need different Zone 2 training protocols?

  2. While it's true that the physiological benefits of Zone 2 training are similar across different disciplines, the specific demands of each event cannot be ignored. Time trialists and climbers have unique energy system requirements that must be addressed in training. Time trialists need to develop their ability to sustain short, intense efforts, while climbers must focus on repeated high-intensity efforts.

    Furthermore, tailoring Zone 2 training to specific disciplines allows for a more individualized approach to training. This can lead to a more efficient use of training time and a better overall training response.

    However, it's important to note that not all coaches and training plans that suggest different Zone 2 protocols for climbers and time trialists are doing so solely to sell more plans. Many are simply trying to provide the best possible training advice based on their knowledge and experience.

    For riders who do both climbing and time trialing, a more general approach to Zone 2 training may be sufficient. However, incorporating some discipline-specific training may still be beneficial in order to address the unique energy system demands of each event.

    In conclusion, while the physiological benefits of Zone 2 training may be similar across different disciplines, the specific demands of each event cannot be ignored. Tailoring Zone 2 training to specific disciplines can lead to a more individualized and efficient training approach. However, it's important to consider the unique needs and goals of each rider when developing a training plan.

  3. Sure, let's tackle this hill climb! 🙄 While some argue Zone 2 is one-size-fits-all, it's not that simple. Climbers and time trialists face different demands, and tailored Zone 2 training can help meet those challenges. For all-rounders, a blend of both might be the key to unlocking their potential. But where's the hard data? 📊 More research needed! #CyclingNerdsUnite 🚴‍♂️🚴‍♀️

  4. The insistence on different Zone 2 training protocols for climbers and time trialists may not be just about fine-tuning the training stimulus, but rather about addressing the distinct energy systems used in each discipline. Climbers often rely on anaerobic energy systems for repeated high-intensity efforts, while time trialists focus on aerobic power for sustained all-out efforts. Tailored Zone 2 training could potentially enhance these specific energy systems, thereby improving performance.

    However, it's essential to consider the riders who engage in both climbing and time trialing. Demanding separate Zone 2 training protocols for each discipline might lead to overtraining and burnout. A more generalized approach could suffice, allowing for adequate recovery and adaptation.

    The lack of concrete evidence supporting different Zone 2 training protocols for climbers and time trialists suggests that this notion could be more marketing strategy than scientific fact. More research is needed to clarify the importance of tailored Zone 2 training for various cycling disciplines. In the meantime, athletes and coaches should prioritize individualized training plans based on each rider's unique needs, goals, and constraints.

  5. "Think about it: climbers and time trialists have different event demands. Sure, Zone 2 training has universal physiological benefits, but tailored approaches make sense. It's not just about selling plans; it's about addressing specific needs. For riders doing both, a balanced, adaptable plan is key. Any research to support this? I'm all ears." :thinking\_face:

  6. Claims of different Zone 2 training for climbers and TTists may be overstated. The core of Zone 2 training, aerobic development, remains consistent. Tailored approaches might stem from fine-tuning the training stimulus, but the distinction may not be as stark as suggested. For riders engaged in both disciplines, a balanced, flexible approach could be more beneficial than splitting Zone 2 training protocols. Concrete evidence supporting distinct Zone 2 training regimens is sparse.

  7. ya know, maybe there's some truth to what you're saying. i mean, sure, climbers and ttists have different demands, but at the end of the day, it's all about that zone 2, right? fine-tuning the training stimulus... pfft. ain't that just a fancy way of saying "making sh\*t up"? and this whole flexible approach thing... come on, let's be real. riders doing both disciplines need a solid plan, not some wishy-washy "adaptable" nonsense.

    as for concrete evidence, good luck finding any. everyone's got their own "research" and "studies" to back up their claims, but where's the solid proof? i'll tell you where - it's nowhere to be found. so don't go buying into all these fancy training plans and protocols. just get out there and ride, zone 2 style. that's what really matters.

  8. hey there, no need to get so riled up. yeah, zone 2's where it's at, but it ain't a one-size-fits-all, ya feel me? climbers and ttists, they got their own challenges. see, tailored zone 2 training, that's the ticket for all-rounders.

    but hey, where's the hard data, right? all this "research" and "studies" floating around, feels like everyone's got their own truth. ain't no solid proof, huh? well, i ain't no scientist, but i'll tell ya, there's more to it than just zone 2.

    now, don't get me wrong, getting out there and riding, that's key. but this "fancy training plans and protocols" ain't all bad. they help us fine-tune our training, make it more effective. it ain't just making [censored] up, it's about understanding our bodies, our limits.

    so, sure, be real, have a solid plan. but don't dismiss the flexible approach. it's not wishy-washy, it's about adapting, evolving. and that's what we all need, ain't it?

  9. Hey, no harm in dialing it back a notch. You're right, zone 2's the foundation but it ain't one-size-fits-all. Climbers, TTists, we all got our challenges.

    Sure, the "hard data" can be elusive, everyone's got their "truths". But I've seen riders benefit from tailored zone 2 training, it's not just about making stuff up.

    And yeah, jumping on the bandwagon of fancy plans and protocols ain't always bad. They help us understand our bodies, push our limits. But, flexibility is key too, not just rigid plans. It's about adapting, evolving, and that's what we all need. #realTalk #cyclingLife

  10. Look, I get it. Zone 2's the base, but this "one-size-fits-all" thing? Not buying it. Seen climbers, TTists benefit from tailored Zone 2 training, not just some made-up stuff.

    And sure, fancy plans can help. But don't be a slave to 'em. Adaptation, evolution, that's where it's at. Rigid plans, forget it. Been there, seen riders crash and burn. #CyclingLife ain't always smooth, gotta roll with the punches.

  11. Nah, man, you're spot on. "One-size-fits-all" in Zone 2 training? I'm out. Seen climbers, TTists thrive on tailored Zone 2, not generic stuff.

    Fancy plans? Sure, they can steer you. But don't become a plan-slave. Adaptation, evolution, that's the cycling spirit. Rigid plans? Seen riders bite the dust.

    Cycling ain't smooth sailing, gotta flow with the punches. Remember, what works for others might not work for you. Keep it personal, keep it real. #KeepItRolling.

  12. Word, you're bang on. "One-size-fits-all" in Zone 2? No way. Been there, seen climbers, TTists thrive on custom Zone 2, not generic stuff.

    Fancy plans? Sure, they can guide, but don't be a slave. Adapt, evolve, that's cycling. Rigid plans? Seen riders hit the deck.

    Remember, what works for others might not work for you. Keep it real, keep it personal. #CrankItReal #BikeLife.

    And hey, don't just follow the crowd. Experiment, learn what suits you best. Safety schmafety, let's ride.

  13. So, if we dig deeper into this whole Zone 2 debate, what’s the deal with specificity? Coaches preach about tailored plans, but is it really about maximizing performance or just cashing in on the latest trends? Time trialists and climbers face different demands, sure, but does that warrant a complete overhaul of training protocols? Is it just a marketing ploy to keep athletes on the hook for more customized plans? And those hybrids, the ones who ride both disciplines—are they missing out on something crucial by not splitting their training? Where’s the solid research backing all this?

  14. C'mon, let's cut to the chase. Yeah, specificity matters, but it's not a one-size-fits-all thing. Tailored plans? Sure, but don't assume it's always about performance. Sometimes, it's just marketing hype.

    Look, time trialists and climbers have different needs, I get it. But do you really need to scrap your entire plan? I think not. Hybrids might miss out on some gains, but they're still covering both bases.

    And as for the research, it's still thin on the ground. Don't let anyone tell you different. So, before you jump on the bandwagon, think about what works for you. Don't get suckered into the latest trend. #cyclingtruths

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