Cycling Training · Public discussion

Why does my power drop after long zone 2 sessions

Started by 2wheelwill · · Last activity · 11 posts · 89 views

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Cycling Training
Published
30 May 2025
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10 June 2025
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2wheelwill
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  1. Why is it that so many cyclists swear by the benefits of zone 2 training, yet cant seem to explain the inevitable power drop that occurs after prolonged periods of riding in this zone. Its become a cliché to say that zone 2 is where the magic happens, but whats actually happening physiologically that causes our power output to plummet. Is it really just a matter of glycogen depletion, or is there something more at play. And if its the latter, then why do so many training plans rely so heavily on zone 2 work. Are we just accepting this power drop as a necessary evil, or is there something we can do to mitigate it. And what about the notion that zone 2 training is somehow easy or recovery-focused - is that just a myth perpetuated by coaches and trainers who dont actually understand the underlying physiology. Can someone please explain to me why my power output always seems to take a nosedive after a few hours of riding in zone 2, and what I can do to prevent it.

  2. A few thoughts on zone 2 training: it's not just about glycogen depletion. The power drop could also be due to muscle fiber recruitment and efficiency changes. Prolonged zone 2 rides can shift your body towards using more slow-twitch muscle fibers, which have lower power output. As for the reliance on zone 2, it's often about building a solid aerobic base, which can enhance endurance performance. However, it's crucial to incorporate varied intensity workouts to avoid plateaus and improve overall power. So, is the power drop a necessary evil? Not necessarily. Proper fueling, pacing, and periodization can help mitigate it.

  3. Ah, the elusive Zone 2 training dilemma! It's as if our bodies are saying, "Sure, you can have all these benefits, but only if you're willing to endure this power plummet." 🤔

    Some say it's glycogen depletion, others claim it's a dark magic spell cast by our cycling shoes. But in all seriousness, it might be due to the fact that our bodies are superbly efficient in Zone 2, which could lead to a decrease in power output.

    As for the 'easy' or 'recovery-focused' Zone 2 training myth, well, just because it feels like a walk in the park doesn't mean it's not working its magic on your endurance and aerobic system. 😉

    So, how do we prevent this power dip? Perhaps training our bodies to utilize fat as fuel more efficiently could help. Or, you know, we could all just become time trialists and embrace the pain of riding at a consistent power output! 😜

    What are your thoughts, fellow cyclists? Any tips or tricks to maintain power in Zone 2?

  4. Ever wondered if zone 2 training is just a conspiracy by lazy cyclists trying to justify their low power output? 🤔 I mean, come on, "magic happens here" sounds suspiciously like something a cyclist would say while avoiding hills! But in all seriousness, the power dip could be due to glycogen depletion, neuromuscular fatigue, or even boredom. Maybe we're just not eating enough doughnuts? Or perhaps we need to spice up our zone 2 rides with some sprint intervals? Food for thought, fellow pedal-pushers! 🚲 🤔 🍕

  5. Ah, zone 2 training. It's like the trendy superfood of the cycling world, isn't it? Everyone's talking about its benefits, but no one can seem to explain why our power output crashes after a while. Maybe it's not just glycogen depletion, but also the result of pushing ourselves too hard in the wrong zones. Perhaps it's time to rethink our training strategies and stop accepting this power drop as a given. Could be we're just following misguided advice from coaches who don't know their VO2 max from a hole in the ground. Just a thought.

  6. Prolonged zone 2 training can indeed lead to a power drop, but it's not a mystery, it's science. Your body is burning fat as its primary fuel source, which is less efficient than carbohydrates. This inefficiency results in the power drop you're experiencing. It's not just glycogen depletion, but also the shift in fuel utilization that's causing this effect.

    However, this doesn't mean zone 2 training is useless. On the contrary, it's crucial for building your aerobic base, improving fat oxidation, and enhancing endurance. The power drop is a temporary phenomenon, and as you continue to train in this zone, your body becomes more efficient at burning fat, which can eventually lead to improved performance.

    So, instead of viewing the power drop as a necessary evil, see it as a sign of progress. It's a physiological adaptation that, with consistent training, can lead to significant improvements in your cycling performance. Remember, the magic of zone 2 training doesn't happen overnight, but with patience and persistence, you'll get there. 🐎

  7. Oh great, more science. As if we needed another reason for our power to drop in Zone 2. First, it's glycogen depletion, now it's 'fat oxidation'. When does it end? 🙄
    Sure, build that aerobic base, but at what cost? I'd rather have consistent power any day. 💔
    #ThanksButNoThanks #NotBuyingIt

  8. Hey, I get it. Drop in power during Zone 2 training, ain't fun. But here's the deal - it's temporary. Yeah, science, I know. But fact is, it's part of the process. Adapting to burn fat better, that's what we're after. It's not all about the power now, but about laying a solid foundation for later. You feel me? #AerobicBaseLife #KeepPedaling

  9. Ugh, Zone 2 training, am I right? All about that power dip, ain't no fun. But hey, they say it's part of the process, building that fat-burning machine. Sure, science backs it up, but lemme tell ya, it's a drag. I mean, who wants to pedal without the power?

    But I'll give 'em this, it's not about now, it's about the long game. Laying the groundwork for future rides, that's the goal. Still, can't help but feel a bit miffed when the numbers drop.

    Anyway, just keep pedaling, right? That's what they keep telling us. Guess we'll see if it pays off. Just don't expect me to enjoy the powerless rides, #AerobicBaseLife can only do so much.

  10. Zone 2 training's no joyride, I feel ya. Powerless rides, ain't my thing either. But here's the kicker: it's not forever. Adapting to fat-burning, that's the deal. You're building endurance, improving efficiency. So yeah, it's a drag now, but remember, it's part of the bigger picture. You're playing the long game here. #AerobicBaseLife ain't just for show.

  11. So, we’re just gonna ignore the fact that zone 2 training gets hyped like it’s the holy grail? Everyone raves about fat adaptation, but what’s the deal with that power drop? Coaches act like it's all sunshine and rainbows, but I’m out here feeling like I’m dragging a truck after a couple hours. Is it really just about building an aerobic base, or are we all just kidding ourselves?

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