Same. My max HR was tested at 200. I started jogging recently after not doing anything other than occasional sprints for a long time and masically 1 mile of my absolute slowest jog i get to 180 BPM. I spend about 3 seconds in zone 2 lol
@@JBTearney Ive never had Max HR tested specifically, but reason to believe its relatively high. That said, after a few weeks of regular running(the little i'm capable of), noticed peaking lower, staying in 160s for exteneded period, rather than drifting up. So...def responds to training.
@@mjrtensepian1727 yeah I’m progressing but I keep running faster and so the heart rate just gets to that high zone anyway. I got to 190 today on a mile. Granted I beat last weeks mile pace by 2 minutes so I prob need to chill out and take it slower lol. I’ve started doing some 200 and 400 sprints also. I have seen a slight decrease in the rate when i lift weights already.
Exactly I've been running for years and never see like 120 bps.. More likely 140-150 area.. WTF these guys smoking.. 80 bps that's heartbeat when you watching TV.
@@skybiz4520 Agree. I'm in my 30s and quite fit but never be able to keep my HR at 140s zone after running more than 2km. Really jealous with these guys
@@skybiz4520 that's what I'm confused about. My resting heart rate is low, but as soon as I start running I'm at 130-140, and I don't feel tired at all I can sustain it
I have a cardiac pacemaker and had two heart attacks in 2023. I managed a 3:56 London Marathon run purely on heart rate not going over 130. It wasn’t easy, but it kept my chest discomfort at bay ! ❤❤
Congrats to you!! That's awesome. Stories like that keep me going. I had a minor heart attack at 42 years old due to a rare blood pressure issue. My cardiologists have signed off on my ultras specifically because I keep it low intensity, and the benefits far outweigh any risks. I can only hope for a pace like yours, especially at a low HR!!
@@H0A0B123 generally no to both questions. A very low heart rate 20-30 bpm which I had carries a higher risk of a stroke. My max heart rate now is around 150. Heart’s recover well if people are sensible and take exercise increases incrementally
@@DavidBlack-ki5fc I see. our ranges are very different. For me an easy jog (~9km/h) brings my heart rate to 155. When I started I couldn't even jog without my heart rate going into the 180s. My max is around 205 bpm.
In the meantime, others who train at a higher intensity will be seeing the same or bigger improvements in a much shorter time period. People love to be told that they can reap benefits without working hard, which is why Z2 training has become so popular. It's applicable to elite marathon runners who train for several hours per day, not to the hobby jogger who does the occasional 10k or HM and runs for 2-3 hours per week.
@@thegearboxman To be fair, if it helps people to be motivated to only run in Z2 for 10k, they'd still be healthier than not running, because it seems too exhausting for them^^
@@MuchlovetheOne That's a very fair point, anything is better than nothing, but my issue is that CZcams is awash with people selling Z2 as an easy route to get faster, and it's simply untrue beyond the world of elites who are actually running 150 miles per week as opposed to joggers doing 20 miles per week.
@@thegearboxman so basically, best way to gain result consistently and efficiently is to mix in interval/sprint days, not just steady-state zone 2 jogging sessions right? I've been jogging a few months slowly and comfortably can do for 2 hours or so but I keep suffering at the 8min/km mark, my body literally can't do 7min/km.
@@IarukaSkYouk First of all, plenty will disagree with what I'm about to say, but this zone-2 low intensity fad is not really applicable to most recreational runners who have progressed beyond the beginner stage. Zone-2 has it's place if you're doing very high volumes and need to avoid injury. It's also an essential starting point for absolute beginners. However, if all you ever do is zone 2 jogging then all you will get good at is running at that pace for longer. To run *faster* for longer (that's what we all want isn't it?) then you have to do sufficient training at higher intensity, and some of that training has to be at a pace that's faster than your target race pace. Running faster for longer requires a higher VO2max and, probably more importantly, a higher lactate threshold. Lactate threshold can be thought of as the point where your body tells you you can't go much faster without feeling ill. You're not going to push these two metrics by shuffling along at a snails pace. The body will not make the necessary adaptations to push LT unless it needs to, and if you don't push beyond the current limit then the limit will stay the same and you won't get faster. I'm not suggesting that every run should be flat out because that would probably result in injury, but several proper scientific studies have pretty much proven that higher intensity training results in bigger gains for less time. The key thing is the amount of time you spend training. If you have the time to run for a couple of hours every day (that excludes most people) then absolutely do most of it in Z2, but if all you have is 2 hours per week or less then spending most (or all) of that time in Z2 doesn't allow sufficient time at higher intensity and any gains will just level off after a few months. Consistency is also very important. There's no point in only doing a high intensity session every once in a while because that won't drive adaptations either, it needs to be a regular thing, at least a couple of times per week. As soon as you progress beyond the beginner stage (where big gains usually come quite easily after 2-3 months), then training to get faster becomes bloody hard and uncomfortable work, don't let anyone tell you that you can take a shortcut to speed. Different people also respond differently to training, and sadly some people don't really respond at all. It all depends on genetics, some people are naturally gifted athletes, even if they only find out later in life. For these people (I'm one of them) training brings bigger rewards because the training response is greater, and moving up a notch is easier compared to someone who struggles even at a slow pace. Good luck, but even if you don't get much faster, stick with it. Anyone who can even jog for 10 minutes without stopping is fitter than 95% of the population!
back in the day I was so focused on zones and shit but i took the fun out of it for me, so i just started run how i wanted and started to enjoy my Easy and normal runs again. I improfed my HM PB by 5min and my 5k by 30s
I did a analysis in the lab with lactat and everything and it was an crazy experience :) Now I am way more confident and can calculate everything by watching my HR and splitting my training much more to get faster and to push my VO2Max as well as my levels. My problem is that I am not really slow at my long runs in zone 1-3 :D
Thank you Ben! This really gives me hope. I tried MAF running for one year and HR got better, but not in the way I was hoping. Aged 38, my MAF heart rate was 142. But my max rate in a 5k was 201, averaging around 190...According to this method, I could go up to around 152 which is huge! Looking forward to this change. All the best from Germany, Stay blessed!✌️✌️✌️ Chris
@@teleroel Hi there, I used a chest strap. 192bpm was my average in this race. Even if that was not accurate, there was a 8k race 2 months ago where I averaged 188bpm. Also got a running watch that is not accurate. I used another chest strap before and it was pretty similar. Greetings! 😊
I used your Half Marathon beginner plan for my first Half Marathon and did great! So for that, thank you! So today, I just purchased your level 2 improver plan for my second Half Marathon in October. Let's hope I "improve" lol 👍🏽
Zone 2 done correctly takes time. Most runners today want results yesterday... Took me 3 months to see any gains which included LOTS of walking. Also volume and consistency is king. It definitely works and you can carry on improving for years, but it ain't going to work in 2 weeks. 90% of my runs are with a heart rate between 125-130. used to be 165 at the same pace. (age 64)
I used to battle with mine in the 180s all the time until I started doing strength stuff for running and fixed up my diet. Processed, inflammatory foods wreak havoc. I now hardly ever exceed 170bpm
Excellent video Ben! Truly brilliantly executed, the montage and editing is just great. You always had great content, but it is just so good to see your improvements in delivery over time, such an important part for competing on CZcams! And kudos to Sarah as well who is largely responsible for taking care of this side of the channel!! Again: BRILLIANT!
@@amicoderozer19 yes tough. I live in North Carolina and it’s similar. Used to live in Phoenix and it would be 118 F. Love the mindset if still trying to do it in bad conditions but also gotta not die.
Thanks for the video! I've been following this z2 thing for some time and I've seen MASSIVE improvements. I think the method you said about finding the zones is pretty accurate. I've done a lab test some years ago and I set the limits accordingly. Then as I watched the video, I calculated as you mentioned and the numbers were pretty much the same, with 1 or 2 bpm difference.
Thanks Ben that clears up questions about what my zone 2 should be, which I’ve been wondering about forever.. also got the 3 running hats I ordered and they are all wonderful, your gear really is top notch!
Some equations that can help predict these numbers if the physical tests aren’t available to you! Age predicted HR max: 208 - (0.7 x age) * if taking beta blockers (meds ending in -lol): 164 - (0.7 x age), this is bc beta blockers cause blunted heart rates! Also, when trying to measure exertion while on beta blockers, HR won’t be the best measurement (bc of the blunted HR), use the RPE scale, from 6 (basically resting) to 20 (the absolute hardest thing you’ve ever done, maximal exertion), a sweet spot is a 13, hope this helps!
even being spanish my native language, i should say CONGRATS for your skills of expressing this knowledge on a simple and efficient way... Thanks and greetings from Argentina
Fai bene a dire queste cose! Ognuno corre a suo modo e per le sue ragioni: io adoro correre e scoprire posti ignoti in giro per il mondo! 🌏 Non c’è un giusto o sbagliato, ma solo un perché ed è proprio quel perché che é giusto seguire e vivere fino in fondo! La vita è una continua scoperta e la corsa è anch’essa una scoperta di noi stessi e del mondo che ci circonda! Siate curiosi e fate sempre solo le cose che vi fanno stare bene! Godetevi la vita sempre! 🙏🏻❤️🤙🏻
Fantastic to see this type of content again! Don’t get me wrong Ben, I’m a big fan of your reviews and often rely on them. But I’m an even greater fan of your vlog type videos (tips and tricks, race videos and your training updates) so here’s me hoping for more of that 🙏🙌
Same here. Even if I keep my pace the same and small steps to increase cadence, my HR picks up above Zone 2. I've been trying for three months now. I think my efficient cadence might be low😂
Definitely needed to hear this, the fact that you walked sometimes as well and leave the ego... started my running journey six months ago... hate cardio but actually getting the hang of it. Had to quit running after a few minutes at first recently ran 34 minutes straight at a slow pace. ● question tho' I have the garmin epix pro, do you still recommend a heart rate band? Thanks!
Avg. Sleeping bpm: ~70-80 Current resting heart rate: 93 Easy pace: usually 180-190 Tempo: 198-203 I've been running cross country for 3 years now, 5k time is almost 16:00, my bpm is just high all the time.
Rocking those Superblast 2 Paris! Finally got a pair in my size today after seeing your last video on them - supply issues doesn’t come close to describing the problem. Great video and always have based taking 220-age = max HR 😅. Also used your previous zones video to reset my approach to run slower. Resting HR should be low 50’s or high 40’s if relatively fit. Garmin spanked me for months when starting out however now running longer at zone 2 than ever before. Distances have increased and defo seeing improvements.
Impossible for me to run at a low heart rate, it's above 35° where I live. During winter though it's incredible how easy running at a low heart rate becomes.
I started low hr running 5 years ago, went from 4h 25 marathon to 2.46 this year. At the start I was running 135 bpm at 10 min mile pace which was brutal but I persevered. I'm now running 135 bpm 6.45 mi mile pace. Find out your max hr then minus 60 bpm and that should be your easy pace and run 3 or 4 out of 5 of weekly runs at this pace with maybe a long run or tempo session in there. Trust me this is life changing training.
Thanks for the detailed explanation. I would suggest put on the hrm strap but don't look at the data while running, just run by feel. Look at the data after the run.
Hi Ben, Would it be possible to have more videos with Sarah as well? I miss her terribly 😭 It's been so long since we last saw her, she's also an excellent runner who deserves to be seen more often. It would be nice to have videos of her races and also of the running shoes and accessories she uses. Thank you so much for your advice and your videos ❤️"
It's probably just my unique situation but I've had to start doing intentional running training to shift my striking pattern from mid-heel to mid-forefoot. This is due to many knee injuries in High School/College, ACL Tear and Meniscus Tear specifically. Now that I am older, if I start to heel strike my knee ends up super flared and just is angry. So I've had to dial back a lot on pacing just to retrain my striking pattern. It's a very interesting process if I am being honest.
Im a big guy (280lbs), it used to take me 18 mins to "run" a mile which was more of a walk/run. I decided to follow almost everyones advice to run slow. So i kept a pace of 15 min mile instead of running as fast i could, and walking for minutes. One day i decided to run a little faster at a 12 min pace, and it was a great feeling when my heart rate got stuck at 135 and i wasnt out of breath, as opposed to before when i was doing 160bpm and out of breath
Great video Ben, as always👍🏻 I started out always running hard and thought that’s how it was done to improve so this type of content helps a lot, thanks ❤
Steven Seiler, the pioneer of Low HR training recommends that if you cannot bear the thought of being seen running slow, that you run in the dark or go somewhere that nobody knows you. I've had people say nasty comments about my running slowly, but I just remind myself that they don't know or understand the science behind it. The biggest damage that I see military people doing to themselves is *still* believing that they have to thrash themselves on every session to get fitter. In my fifties and able to run 6-7 days a week because of the lower impact on connective tissue that results from low HR training.
Go with rate of perceived exertion. Nasal only breathing is another method. Some wrist-based smart watches are actually accurate for heart rate - eg in hospital my husband’s Garmin showed exactly the same heart rate data as the monitor he was hooked up to.
Thanks for the video ! Very helpfull. Currently trying 3x 10K easy runs and 1x 10K intervals. On my easy runs, I get passed by children going to school 🤣 My problem with easy runs is that my knees hurt much more than when I do intervals / higher cadences. It doesn't seem too "natural", I'm basically bunny hopping in the summer (32-38C). (I am tall & have some knee issues due to surgeries from prior "athletic" endeavors)
The results from the calculator differs a lot depending on what metode I use. When using only age, THR at 70% intesity is 116 bpm. When using MHR and RHR the result at 70% is 127 bpm, even though MHR is exactly the same. I have a rather low RHR at 35. If I tell the calculator that my RHR is 90, which is rather high, THR is supposed to be 143 at 70% intensity. So the Karvonen Formula gives a much higher THR than the Basic Formula for everyone
I got a problem in fact when i am running Zone 2-3 my cadence is much lower than doing strides or faster runs in general. I find it difficult to run slow AND to make sure that my cadence is above 170. Any advice on this subject?
An important factor also: Iron. Lacking iron will prevent any improvement. I experienced it in 2017, could not run more than 5km. After supplementing iron next run was 10, later 15 and 20 again. I tried hard, but befor taking iron there was sth like a barrier. Even with no lack you can take Iron after intensive VO2max training also. But be cautious not to overload your body with it, this can be harmful.
Great advice benny boy…. 🎉🎉 watched another channel a few days ago with a similar narrative and their advise was so far off the mark it was just plain misleading and they have many many followers. ❤
I need to improve my cadence. It’s stuck around 140. Doesn’t matter if I run slow (12 minute pace) or fast (6 minute pace) it all comes out to the same cadence.
I'm 39, 6' and 250lbs trying to get into running but can't ever seem to keep my heart rate low. Last night I ran at an 11'18"/mi pace and my heart rate average 173. It feels like I'm running as slow as I can but it just doesn't lower. I've done the jog/walk splits to lower my heart rate in between, but those are almost harder because I lose all momentum to keep going when I'm constantly stopping jogging. Working on the diet to lower how much I'm dragging around on these runs, but it's been tough.
@seven_curses just take it easy - building up fitness takes time. Have you considered doing something like a couch to 5k / couch to 10k course? They can be great for building up base fitness in a well regulated manner, without overstretching yourself. They do involve a mixture of walking and running but that's a brilliant way to get into it. Don't worry about just being able to run, it will come with time.
@@andrewdhome thanks for the comment. Yeah I've tried those with some good and some mediocre results. Last time I got into a decent spot I got wiped out by covid and it was like starting from zero. Definitely just lacking some of the patience on it to be sure since I've tried it a few times and it feels like I “should” be further along. A valuable reminder though to cut myself some slack.
@@seven_curses it's really important not to overdo it and, as you say, cut yourself some slack. Doing too much, particularly after illness, will just lead to injury. Take it slowly, literally!! As an example - I'm an older runner but can just about make a 3:30ish marathon - that said, I've been ill for a couple of weeks and have just finished my first slow run - and struggled to manage 10k. My heart tells me to go out again tomorrow and try harder - but that is an urge which must be resisted. Take time, you'll get there BTW, if you have a friendly running club nearby, consider joining - they can offer great support. Good luck!
I have a question. What's the point of running zone 2 ? I started running a month ago so I'm slow, 55mins 10k, 26mins 5k, 2h30mins 21.1k. I'm always much higher than zone 2 in terms of heart rate, but i dont feel tired or out of breath at all, it feels easy but according to my HR I'm going almost all out as soon as i start running. Zone 2 would be speed walking for me, but i prefer actually running and can sustain it for a long time and I am improving doing that. So is there a point to Zone 2 running when you're a beginner if you can sustain higher zone for a long time?
That was me, mate. You need a lab test to recheck your zones. Garmin and formulas told me that z2 max is 128 bpm, lab test showed that it is 145. Made so much sense for me ,improving ever since.
I belive that for a beginner, running 2-3 hours per week or less, you should not think about heart rate nor zones at all. Running never becomes easy, but the pace will improve!
@@user-og7jl3vd8v thanks mate, this would make sense since I shouldn't be able to sustain these higher zones for that long, so it's probably lower than I think. I'll look into it
@@tellef70 I run around 5-6h a week for now, two 5k, two 10k, and a long run between 20-30k. I didn't care much about heart rate but I kept hearing about zone 2. I'll keep going until I reach a ceiling and maybe after a while it'll make sense.
Initially when giving calcualtions you don't mention adding the resting HR back on - freaked me out when I calculated Zone 5 starting at 121. Adding RHR back on makes sense - but video confused me.
Zone 2 is hard to run consistently .. like 80% of your runs , yesss i know it takes time but it’s to slow dude 🥴 my last run I saw a grandma passing me 🤣
What should I do if I can't run in zone 2? I'm comfortable in zone 3, where I can still talk and run for hours. But when I try to run in zone 2, it feels much harder, unnatural, and too slow
I used to beat myself up for not being able to keep my HR under 140 until I realized my zone 2 goes up to 165. That was a bit of an eye opener. This whole 220 - your age or the numbers you get from a smartwatch are just not terribly accurate for someone like myself.
I find that when I run slow enough to stay below 135 I can barely run further than 9k as my knees are in bits. But I can run a half marathon at a regular pace with ease 🤷♀️ to run slow enough in basically not moving my legs
Big error… In the first calculation at 1:27 the Zone 2 ist 60-70% of the MaxHR and later in the Video at 4:42 the calculation for Zone 2 ist also 60-70% but now from the HRR, a total different value! The outcomes are total different. What’s that about?!
Just the video i was looking for. Have started jogging on treadmill for a month or so. Where I jog at a constant speed of 9kmph for 4/5km. But my heartbeat goes straight to 175+ as soon as i start running and usually stays in 177-188 bpm range for rest of the duration. I do think my heartbeat is way too high for someone who's 28. I do slow down or even stop if it crosses 190 though.
I am 160 cm tall and weigh 64 kg. When I run at a slow pace of around 9/10 my heart rate immediately rises to around 155-165 or zone 3&4. Should I start from walking first? because when I walk fast I got in zone 2
I’ve been running in z2 80% of the time for 11 months now having calculated my hr zones as this video shows and using a HRM but my z2 pace has gotten slower not faster 😢
Could you also consider zone 2 training in your training plans? I use the HM plan - and there are the easy sessions defined with e.g. 6:00 min / km. Can I just take those session to do zone 2 Training (which would be way way slower for me to stay there).
Most watches will lie since they will include the heartrate when sleeping, which is NOT supposed to be included. Eg. my resting heartrate is between 50-55, but Garmin tells me it's 45 since it includes my 8 hours of very low heartrate during sleep :-o
5:04 Zone 1 = 50-60% of Heart Rate Reserve?? A summand is missing in the description of the calculation! THRR = (HRR x desired training intensity) PLUS HRest. Zone 1 is 50-60% of HRR plus HRest. The correct formula is stated later when it comes to Zone 2. But it should also be displayed correctly in the overlays.
Anyone have any suggestions on how to maintain low HR while increasing cadence? As soon as I start upping my cadence my HR starts to shoot up. I don’t get how you can increase cadence without also increasing HR.
So my zone 2 pace is incredibly slow, as mentioned, and when I try to increase the cadence my heart rate spikes. e.g a slow Zone 2 jog for me is around 138-140spm, I feel like this is a bit low. Anyone have any advice?
is your max heart rate going to vary based on the workout? Meaning, say running for 30 min vs doing a HIIT workout, sort of like crossfit? I've noticed my maxes are quite different, like 165 for the run vs 190 for the HIIT.
I've been trying to slow down my pace for aerobic exercise and I'm curious how many weeks/months it takes to drop the heart rate during runs, assuming I've been running now for 6 months.
Another really helpful video! I thought I had my Zone 2 sorted and then it started to warm up and now my heart rate is all over the place. Is this normal?
I've mastered the technique of running very slowly at an alarmingly high HR; lets see you tackle that!
Same. My max HR was tested at 200. I started jogging recently after not doing anything other than occasional sprints for a long time and masically 1 mile of my absolute slowest jog i get to 180 BPM. I spend about 3 seconds in zone 2 lol
@@JBTearney Ive never had Max HR tested specifically, but reason to believe its relatively high. That said, after a few weeks of regular running(the little i'm capable of), noticed peaking lower, staying in 160s for exteneded period, rather than drifting up. So...def responds to training.
@@mjrtensepian1727 yeah I’m progressing but I keep running faster and so the heart rate just gets to that high zone anyway. I got to 190 today on a mile. Granted I beat last weeks mile pace by 2 minutes so I prob need to chill out and take it slower lol. I’ve started doing some 200 and 400 sprints also. I have seen a slight decrease in the rate when i lift weights already.
My RHR is 200. Beat that. I'll collapse everytime I climb 1 flight of stairs
I only need to look at my running shoes and I'm 160bpm
Exactly I've been running for years and never see like 120 bps.. More likely 140-150 area.. WTF these guys smoking.. 80 bps that's heartbeat when you watching TV.
@@skybiz4520 Agree. I'm in my 30s and quite fit but never be able to keep my HR at 140s zone after running more than 2km.
Really jealous with these guys
@@skybiz4520 that's what I'm confused about. My resting heart rate is low, but as soon as I start running I'm at 130-140, and I don't feel tired at all I can sustain it
And then there‘s me havin a constant heart rate of 170-180 for 10km
@@SWiSSlLiX same, I'm 160-170 whether it's a 8kph supposed zone 2 jog, or a steady 11kph on a 5k. Hearts just all or nothin
I think I speak for everyone when I say we miss the "Hello everybody, welcome back to the channel!!" intro 😆
Yes! I miss the "helloeverybody!"
That's his signature,I miss it too "Hello everybody, welcome back to the channel".
Helloooeverybod-eeeeee! Agreed - It was such a wholesome intro!
The best time was when Sarah beat Ben to the intro 🤣
The people have spoken Ben 🤣
I have a cardiac pacemaker and had two heart attacks in 2023. I managed a 3:56 London Marathon run purely on heart rate not going over 130. It wasn’t easy, but it kept my chest discomfort at bay ! ❤❤
Congrats to you!! That's awesome. Stories like that keep me going. I had a minor heart attack at 42 years old due to a rare blood pressure issue. My cardiologists have signed off on my ultras specifically because I keep it low intensity, and the benefits far outweigh any risks. I can only hope for a pace like yours, especially at a low HR!!
@@Kelly_Ben thank you. I still do sessions in training and take the risk ! I’m aiming for a 4:50 mile this summer .
Is there an upper limit to the heart rate with a pacemaker?
is it dangerous to do activities that require a high heart rate?
@@H0A0B123 generally no to both questions. A very low heart rate 20-30 bpm which I had carries a higher risk of a stroke. My max heart rate now is around 150. Heart’s recover well if people are sensible and take exercise increases incrementally
@@DavidBlack-ki5fc I see. our ranges are very different.
For me an easy jog (~9km/h) brings my heart rate to 155. When I started I couldn't even jog without my heart rate going into the 180s. My max is around 205 bpm.
Running in zone 2 and seeing improvements can take much longer than a few weeks. It does work, but be patient with it.
In the meantime, others who train at a higher intensity will be seeing the same or bigger improvements in a much shorter time period. People love to be told that they can reap benefits without working hard, which is why Z2 training has become so popular. It's applicable to elite marathon runners who train for several hours per day, not to the hobby jogger who does the occasional 10k or HM and runs for 2-3 hours per week.
@@thegearboxman To be fair, if it helps people to be motivated to only run in Z2 for 10k, they'd still be healthier than not running, because it seems too exhausting for them^^
@@MuchlovetheOne That's a very fair point, anything is better than nothing, but my issue is that CZcams is awash with people selling Z2 as an easy route to get faster, and it's simply untrue beyond the world of elites who are actually running 150 miles per week as opposed to joggers doing 20 miles per week.
@@thegearboxman so basically, best way to gain result consistently and efficiently is to mix in interval/sprint days, not just steady-state zone 2 jogging sessions right?
I've been jogging a few months slowly and comfortably can do for 2 hours or so but I keep suffering at the 8min/km mark, my body literally can't do 7min/km.
@@IarukaSkYouk First of all, plenty will disagree with what I'm about to say, but this zone-2 low intensity fad is not really applicable to most recreational runners who have progressed beyond the beginner stage. Zone-2 has it's place if you're doing very high volumes and need to avoid injury. It's also an essential starting point for absolute beginners. However, if all you ever do is zone 2 jogging then all you will get good at is running at that pace for longer. To run *faster* for longer (that's what we all want isn't it?) then you have to do sufficient training at higher intensity, and some of that training has to be at a pace that's faster than your target race pace. Running faster for longer requires a higher VO2max and, probably more importantly, a higher lactate threshold. Lactate threshold can be thought of as the point where your body tells you you can't go much faster without feeling ill. You're not going to push these two metrics by shuffling along at a snails pace. The body will not make the necessary adaptations to push LT unless it needs to, and if you don't push beyond the current limit then the limit will stay the same and you won't get faster. I'm not suggesting that every run should be flat out because that would probably result in injury, but several proper scientific studies have pretty much proven that higher intensity training results in bigger gains for less time. The key thing is the amount of time you spend training. If you have the time to run for a couple of hours every day (that excludes most people) then absolutely do most of it in Z2, but if all you have is 2 hours per week or less then spending most (or all) of that time in Z2 doesn't allow sufficient time at higher intensity and any gains will just level off after a few months. Consistency is also very important. There's no point in only doing a high intensity session every once in a while because that won't drive adaptations either, it needs to be a regular thing, at least a couple of times per week. As soon as you progress beyond the beginner stage (where big gains usually come quite easily after 2-3 months), then training to get faster becomes bloody hard and uncomfortable work, don't let anyone tell you that you can take a shortcut to speed. Different people also respond differently to training, and sadly some people don't really respond at all. It all depends on genetics, some people are naturally gifted athletes, even if they only find out later in life. For these people (I'm one of them) training brings bigger rewards because the training response is greater, and moving up a notch is easier compared to someone who struggles even at a slow pace. Good luck, but even if you don't get much faster, stick with it. Anyone who can even jog for 10 minutes without stopping is fitter than 95% of the population!
back in the day I was so focused on zones and shit but i took the fun out of it for me, so i just started run how i wanted and started to enjoy my Easy and normal runs again. I improfed my HM PB by 5min and my 5k by 30s
Totally agree, one should decide, wether he likes running or he likes figures.
I did a analysis in the lab with lactat and everything and it was an crazy experience :)
Now I am way more confident and can calculate everything by watching my HR and splitting my training much more to get faster and to push my VO2Max as well as my levels.
My problem is that I am not really slow at my long runs in zone 1-3 :D
That's great to hear! Slow/fast is completely relative to one's level of fitness, lots of elite runners run 'slow' at 3:40 min/km :D
Thank you Ben! This really gives me hope. I tried MAF running for one year and HR got better, but not in the way I was hoping. Aged 38, my MAF heart rate was 142. But my max rate in a 5k was 201, averaging around 190...According to this method, I could go up to around 152 which is huge!
Looking forward to this change.
All the best from Germany,
Stay blessed!✌️✌️✌️
Chris
Averaging around 190? How did you measure this? Just using your running watch, because these are not accurate enough.
@@teleroel
Hi there,
I used a chest strap. 192bpm was my average in this race. Even if that was not accurate, there was a 8k race 2 months ago where I averaged 188bpm. Also got a running watch that is not accurate. I used another chest strap before and it was pretty similar.
Greetings! 😊
I've struggled with this so much. The ego is dreadful! Thanks for this Ben...super, super helpful 👊
I used your Half Marathon beginner plan for my first Half Marathon and did great! So for that, thank you! So today, I just purchased your level 2 improver plan for my second Half Marathon in October. Let's hope I "improve" lol 👍🏽
At last someone has explained this in a clear way! Thank you!
I agree 100% that the ego must be left behind.
Zone 2 done correctly takes time. Most runners today want results yesterday... Took me 3 months to see any gains which included LOTS of walking. Also volume and consistency is king. It definitely works and you can carry on improving for years, but it ain't going to work in 2 weeks. 90% of my runs are with a heart rate between 125-130. used to be 165 at the same pace. (age 64)
I used to battle with mine in the 180s all the time until I started doing strength stuff for running and fixed up my diet. Processed, inflammatory foods wreak havoc. I now hardly ever exceed 170bpm
Same here. Diet works wonders.
omega 3 capsule work wonders for your heart
Excellent video Ben! Truly brilliantly executed, the montage and editing is just great. You always had great content, but it is just so good to see your improvements in delivery over time, such an important part for competing on CZcams! And kudos to Sarah as well who is largely responsible for taking care of this side of the channel!! Again: BRILLIANT!
One thing that is very tough with this for me is heat and humidity.
Yes, I live in Italy and in summer it's crazy hot. Like 38 degrees Celsius and 80% humidity. I have to walk a lot to be in zone 2.
@@amicoderozer19 yes tough. I live in North Carolina and it’s similar. Used to live in Phoenix and it would be 118 F.
Love the mindset if still trying to do it in bad conditions but also gotta not die.
Thanks for the video! I've been following this z2 thing for some time and I've seen MASSIVE improvements. I think the method you said about finding the zones is pretty accurate. I've done a lab test some years ago and I set the limits accordingly. Then as I watched the video, I calculated as you mentioned and the numbers were pretty much the same, with 1 or 2 bpm difference.
I love your videos, your sparkling energy as well as your expertise. Always a joy to watch!😊
Zone 2 is the hardest zone to run in hands down.
Yes, this!! 😂 you think you're running easy, but your heart rate says otherwise
Depends on your HRR 😅 mine is 150, 155 bpm Is still zone 2 training for me 😂
@@SuperCrabCraftso you have over 200 bpm max?
@@hiking2511 yep, 203
Thanks Ben that clears up questions about what my zone 2 should be, which I’ve been wondering about forever.. also got the 3 running hats I ordered and they are all wonderful, your gear really is top notch!
This is definitely going to be a focus for the next year for me. I’ve given up sooooo many times over the years and not given it a real chance.
Some equations that can help predict these numbers if the physical tests aren’t available to you!
Age predicted HR max: 208 - (0.7 x age)
* if taking beta blockers (meds ending in -lol): 164 - (0.7 x age), this is bc beta blockers cause blunted heart rates! Also, when trying to measure exertion while on beta blockers, HR won’t be the best measurement (bc of the blunted HR), use the RPE scale, from 6 (basically resting) to 20 (the absolute hardest thing you’ve ever done, maximal exertion), a sweet spot is a 13, hope this helps!
even being spanish my native language, i should say CONGRATS for your skills of expressing this knowledge on a simple and efficient way... Thanks and greetings from Argentina
The only way for me to go to Zone 2 is to walk. Once I start jogging a little I am in 3 and on my way up.
Its pretty common for new runners, it takes more than several months until your HR goes down while running.
Fai bene a dire queste cose! Ognuno corre a suo modo e per le sue ragioni: io adoro correre e scoprire posti ignoti in giro per il mondo! 🌏 Non c’è un giusto o sbagliato, ma solo un perché ed è proprio quel perché che é giusto seguire e vivere fino in fondo! La vita è una continua scoperta e la corsa è anch’essa una scoperta di noi stessi e del mondo che ci circonda! Siate curiosi e fate sempre solo le cose che vi fanno stare bene! Godetevi la vita sempre! 🙏🏻❤️🤙🏻
Fantastic to see this type of content again! Don’t get me wrong Ben, I’m a big fan of your reviews and often rely on them. But I’m an even greater fan of your vlog type videos (tips and tricks, race videos and your training updates) so here’s me hoping for more of that 🙏🙌
Lots of good advice to try to stay in that infamous zone 2....and now I have to go and lose my ego😯😊😊. Well spoken video, loved it!!
Great video (as always)! I find it difficult to balance Zone 2 heart rate with a higher cadence. It’s either one or the other for me at the moment
Same here. Even if I keep my pace the same and small steps to increase cadence, my HR picks up above Zone 2. I've been trying for three months now. I think my efficient cadence might be low😂
nice Ben! but what about breathing?! you can literally modulate your heart rate via the correct beathing approach
This is what people should be focusing on!!
Thank you for being the only CZcamsr to say the new wrist HR technology is very accurate. It is. Go England 🏴
Definitely needed to hear this, the fact that you walked sometimes as well and leave the ego... started my running journey six months ago... hate cardio but actually getting the hang of it. Had to quit running after a few minutes at first recently ran 34 minutes straight at a slow pace.
● question tho' I have the garmin epix pro, do you still recommend a heart rate band?
Thanks!
Avg. Sleeping bpm: ~70-80
Current resting heart rate: 93
Easy pace: usually 180-190
Tempo: 198-203
I've been running cross country for 3 years now, 5k time is almost 16:00, my bpm is just high all the time.
Rocking those Superblast 2 Paris! Finally got a pair in my size today after seeing your last video on them - supply issues doesn’t come close to describing the problem.
Great video and always have based taking 220-age = max HR 😅. Also used your previous zones video to reset my approach to run slower.
Resting HR should be low 50’s or high 40’s if relatively fit. Garmin spanked me for months when starting out however now running longer at zone 2 than ever before. Distances have increased and defo seeing improvements.
Well put together. Thanks Ben!
Impossible for me to run at a low heart rate, it's above 35° where I live. During winter though it's incredible how easy running at a low heart rate becomes.
Even in Germany it its up 40* in summer. If you want to improve go as slow as it is needed to be
Some good useful tools you've linked to there, Ben. Thanks :)
I started low hr running 5 years ago, went from 4h 25 marathon to 2.46 this year. At the start I was running 135 bpm at 10 min mile pace which was brutal but I persevered. I'm now running 135 bpm 6.45 mi mile pace. Find out your max hr then minus 60 bpm and that should be your easy pace and run 3 or 4 out of 5 of weekly runs at this pace with maybe a long run or tempo session in there. Trust me this is life changing training.
Love the advice! Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks for the detailed explanation. I would suggest put on the hrm strap but don't look at the data while running, just run by feel. Look at the data after the run.
As always great advice and ideas to improve our running
Do you have any breathing techniques?!
the most tricky runs are the runs with heart as the primary stat on the watch while running.
Thanks for the video!!🙏🏻it helps me a lot!!
Hi Ben,
Would it be possible to have more videos with Sarah as well? I miss her terribly 😭
It's been so long since we last saw her, she's also an excellent runner who deserves to be seen more often.
It would be nice to have videos of her races and also of the running shoes and accessories she uses.
Thank you so much for your advice and your videos ❤️"
And her training of course!
It's probably just my unique situation but I've had to start doing intentional running training to shift my striking pattern from mid-heel to mid-forefoot. This is due to many knee injuries in High School/College, ACL Tear and Meniscus Tear specifically. Now that I am older, if I start to heel strike my knee ends up super flared and just is angry. So I've had to dial back a lot on pacing just to retrain my striking pattern. It's a very interesting process if I am being honest.
Im a big guy (280lbs), it used to take me 18 mins to "run" a mile which was more of a walk/run. I decided to follow almost everyones advice to run slow. So i kept a pace of 15 min mile instead of running as fast i could, and walking for minutes. One day i decided to run a little faster at a 12 min pace, and it was a great feeling when my heart rate got stuck at 135 and i wasnt out of breath, as opposed to before when i was doing 160bpm and out of breath
Another great video Ben, thanks a lot.
Thank you love this as pace and heart rate is what I'm working at.
Excellent video on Low Heart Rate running!!
Great video Ben, as always👍🏻
I started out always running hard and thought that’s how it was done to improve so this type of content helps a lot, thanks ❤
Im glad my current resting heart rate is 49. My max one is around 185. I'm a 43 man, so I'm happy with that
For older runners (65+) Zone numbers get a bit strange.
Great vid. Really helpful thanks!
Remember 20% is for tempo. If u always 100% at zone 2 the improvement is far far away
Steven Seiler, the pioneer of Low HR training recommends that if you cannot bear the thought of being seen running slow, that you run in the dark or go somewhere that nobody knows you. I've had people say nasty comments about my running slowly, but I just remind myself that they don't know or understand the science behind it. The biggest damage that I see military people doing to themselves is *still* believing that they have to thrash themselves on every session to get fitter. In my fifties and able to run 6-7 days a week because of the lower impact on connective tissue that results from low HR training.
Go with rate of perceived exertion. Nasal only breathing is another method. Some wrist-based smart watches are actually accurate for heart rate - eg in hospital my husband’s Garmin showed exactly the same heart rate data as the monitor he was hooked up to.
Thank you! ❤
I have the opposite issue. I need to run so fast to get to different thresholds that i tend to get injured easily.
Thanks for the video ! Very helpfull.
Currently trying 3x 10K easy runs and 1x 10K intervals.
On my easy runs, I get passed by children going to school 🤣
My problem with easy runs is that my knees hurt much more than when I do intervals / higher cadences.
It doesn't seem too "natural", I'm basically bunny hopping in the summer (32-38C).
(I am tall & have some knee issues due to surgeries from prior "athletic" endeavors)
The results from the calculator differs a lot depending on what metode I use. When using only age, THR at 70% intesity is 116 bpm. When using MHR and RHR the result at 70% is 127 bpm, even though MHR is exactly the same. I have a rather low RHR at 35. If I tell the calculator that my RHR is 90, which is rather high, THR is supposed to be 143 at 70% intensity. So the Karvonen Formula gives a much higher THR than the Basic Formula for everyone
how many hours in a week do we run and how many hours in 1 run?
excellent great Ben
For those with ego, title your strava runs accordingly so people can see what type of run you're doing...like "Zone 2 long run"
Or don't use Strava at all
I got a problem in fact when i am running Zone 2-3 my cadence is much lower than doing strides or faster runs in general. I find it difficult to run slow AND to make sure that my cadence is above 170. Any advice on this subject?
An important factor also: Iron. Lacking iron will prevent any improvement. I experienced it in 2017, could not run more than 5km. After supplementing iron next run was 10, later 15 and 20 again. I tried hard, but befor taking iron there was sth like a barrier.
Even with no lack you can take Iron after intensive VO2max training also. But be cautious not to overload your body with it, this can be harmful.
Great advice benny boy…. 🎉🎉 watched another channel a few days ago with a similar narrative and their advise was so far off the mark it was just plain misleading and they have many many followers. ❤
I need to improve my cadence. It’s stuck around 140. Doesn’t matter if I run slow (12 minute pace) or fast (6 minute pace) it all comes out to the same cadence.
Interesting, your calculation (i feel like my numbers are close) puts zone 2 where Garmin says zone 3 is
I'm 39, 6' and 250lbs trying to get into running but can't ever seem to keep my heart rate low. Last night I ran at an 11'18"/mi pace and my heart rate average 173. It feels like I'm running as slow as I can but it just doesn't lower. I've done the jog/walk splits to lower my heart rate in between, but those are almost harder because I lose all momentum to keep going when I'm constantly stopping jogging. Working on the diet to lower how much I'm dragging around on these runs, but it's been tough.
@seven_curses just take it easy - building up fitness takes time. Have you considered doing something like a couch to 5k / couch to 10k course? They can be great for building up base fitness in a well regulated manner, without overstretching yourself. They do involve a mixture of walking and running but that's a brilliant way to get into it. Don't worry about just being able to run, it will come with time.
@@andrewdhome thanks for the comment. Yeah I've tried those with some good and some mediocre results. Last time I got into a decent spot I got wiped out by covid and it was like starting from zero. Definitely just lacking some of the patience on it to be sure since I've tried it a few times and it feels like I “should” be further along. A valuable reminder though to cut myself some slack.
@@seven_curses it's really important not to overdo it and, as you say, cut yourself some slack. Doing too much, particularly after illness, will just lead to injury. Take it slowly, literally!! As an example - I'm an older runner but can just about make a 3:30ish marathon - that said, I've been ill for a couple of weeks and have just finished my first slow run - and struggled to manage 10k. My heart tells me to go out again tomorrow and try harder - but that is an urge which must be resisted. Take time, you'll get there
BTW, if you have a friendly running club nearby, consider joining - they can offer great support. Good luck!
I have a question. What's the point of running zone 2 ?
I started running a month ago so I'm slow, 55mins 10k, 26mins 5k, 2h30mins 21.1k.
I'm always much higher than zone 2 in terms of heart rate, but i dont feel tired or out of breath at all, it feels easy but according to my HR I'm going almost all out as soon as i start running.
Zone 2 would be speed walking for me, but i prefer actually running and can sustain it for a long time and I am improving doing that.
So is there a point to Zone 2 running when you're a beginner if you can sustain higher zone for a long time?
That was me, mate. You need a lab test to recheck your zones. Garmin and formulas told me that z2 max is 128 bpm, lab test showed that it is 145. Made so much sense for me ,improving ever since.
I belive that for a beginner, running 2-3 hours per week or less, you should not think about heart rate nor zones at all. Running never becomes easy, but the pace will improve!
@@user-og7jl3vd8v thanks mate, this would make sense since I shouldn't be able to sustain these higher zones for that long, so it's probably lower than I think. I'll look into it
@@tellef70 I run around 5-6h a week for now, two 5k, two 10k, and a long run between 20-30k. I didn't care much about heart rate but I kept hearing about zone 2. I'll keep going until I reach a ceiling and maybe after a while it'll make sense.
Initially when giving calcualtions you don't mention adding the resting HR back on - freaked me out when I calculated Zone 5 starting at 121. Adding RHR back on makes sense - but video confused me.
Zone 2 is hard to run consistently .. like 80% of your runs , yesss i know it takes time but it’s to slow dude 🥴 my last run I saw a grandma passing me 🤣
What should I do if I can't run in zone 2? I'm comfortable in zone 3, where I can still talk and run for hours. But when I try to run in zone 2, it feels much harder, unnatural, and too slow
I used to beat myself up for not being able to keep my HR under 140 until I realized my zone 2 goes up to 165. That was a bit of an eye opener. This whole 220 - your age or the numbers you get from a smartwatch are just not terribly accurate for someone like myself.
Or run with power as it allows for hills and has little lag and no drift.
I don't mind running slow. Don't look on other pace just keep on traning and see that your results are quickly better just like mine :)
I find that when I run slow enough to stay below 135 I can barely run further than 9k as my knees are in bits. But I can run a half marathon at a regular pace with ease 🤷♀️ to run slow enough in basically not moving my legs
You can’t. Thanks for watching.
Big error… In the first calculation at 1:27 the Zone 2 ist 60-70% of the MaxHR and later in the Video at 4:42 the calculation for Zone 2 ist also 60-70% but now from the HRR, a total different value! The outcomes are total different. What’s that about?!
The video is a mass. He mixed hrr with max. Lvl 1 is 50 to 60% of his max (180) not of 125...
Just the video i was looking for. Have started jogging on treadmill for a month or so. Where I jog at a constant speed of 9kmph for 4/5km. But my heartbeat goes straight to 175+ as soon as i start running and usually stays in 177-188 bpm range for rest of the duration. I do think my heartbeat is way too high for someone who's 28. I do slow down or even stop if it crosses 190 though.
More amazing videos ✅✅✅
Zone2 running is much slower than you feel. But you must keep going.
My HR goes up a lot when I'm talking, do I need to account for that on top of running slower?
my Zone2 is nov 6:45 minutes/km. half year ago was 7:30-7:45 :)
I am 160 cm tall and weigh 64 kg. When I run at a slow pace of around 9/10 my heart rate immediately rises to around 155-165 or zone 3&4. Should I start from walking first? because when I walk fast I got in zone 2
I’ve been running in z2 80% of the time for 11 months now having calculated my hr zones as this video shows and using a HRM but my z2 pace has gotten slower not faster 😢
Remember guys when youre running your zone 2 at 9min/km pace, Kipchoge cannot do that even when he wants to. 😂
Could you also consider zone 2 training in your training plans? I use the HM plan - and there are the easy sessions defined with e.g. 6:00 min / km. Can I just take those session to do zone 2 Training (which would be way way slower for me to stay there).
I’m a 4:23 miler and my easy runs at 7:30-8:00 pace feel easy but my hr always gets up to 180+
Most watches will lie since they will include the heartrate when sleeping, which is NOT supposed to be included. Eg. my resting heartrate is between 50-55, but Garmin tells me it's 45 since it includes my 8 hours of very low heartrate during sleep :-o
5:04 Zone 1 = 50-60% of Heart Rate Reserve??
A summand is missing in the description of the calculation!
THRR = (HRR x desired training intensity) PLUS HRest.
Zone 1 is 50-60% of HRR plus HRest.
The correct formula is stated later when it comes to Zone 2. But it should also be displayed correctly in the overlays.
Anyone have any suggestions on how to maintain low HR while increasing cadence? As soon as I start upping my cadence my HR starts to shoot up. I don’t get how you can increase cadence without also increasing HR.
So my zone 2 pace is incredibly slow, as mentioned, and when I try to increase the cadence my heart rate spikes. e.g a slow Zone 2 jog for me is around 138-140spm, I feel like this is a bit low. Anyone have any advice?
When I was younger, sometime ago, this was called LSD, long slow distance. I haven’t heard anyone mention this term recently. Is it still a thing.?
is your max heart rate going to vary based on the workout? Meaning, say running for 30 min vs doing a HIIT workout, sort of like crossfit? I've noticed my maxes are quite different, like 165 for the run vs 190 for the HIIT.
Different places give me different calculations for what my zone 2 is. My max Hr x .6 is 128 but some heart rate calculators online say up to 148?
I've been trying to slow down my pace for aerobic exercise and I'm curious how many weeks/months it takes to drop the heart rate during runs, assuming I've been running now for 6 months.
My knees starts hurting after 8K when I run slow=Zone 2
As per your experience ( i saw you are using different shoes )in running what's the best running shoes for training in zone 2
Another really helpful video! I thought I had my Zone 2 sorted and then it started to warm up and now my heart rate is all over the place. Is this normal?
Not the video creator, but I frequently scour the r/running sub.
Yes, it is VERY often reported that heart rate shoots up when exercising in heat