How long should a base training phase with zone 2 last, and what are the key determinants that influence this duration? Should it be a fixed block of time, or can it be ongoing as long as the athlete continues to make progressive gains in functional threshold power and aerobic capacity?
Can a prolonged period of zone 2 training induce maladaptation and stagnation, or does the beneficial effect of increased mitochondrial density and capillarization always outweigh the potential drawbacks of prolonged low-intensity exercise?
What role does the athletes training age, current fitness level, and specific goals play in determining the optimal duration of a zone 2 base training phase? Should a rider with a high aerobic capacity but limited anaerobic endurance prioritize a shorter base phase, or would they benefit from an extended period of zone 2 training to further enhance their endurance?
How do coaches and experienced riders quantify the effectiveness of their zone 2 training, and what metrics or physiological markers do they use to determine when its time to transition to more intense training?