EP 121: Why beginner runners CAN'T run in Zone 2 (and why they shouldn't)

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Beginners Guide to Running! https://youtu.be/twuSS9Uu2p0

Beginner runners are constantly told to “stay in Zone 2”… but if you’re new to running, that advice can actually make things harder, more frustrating, and way less sustainable.

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In this video, I’m breaking down why Zone 2 training is often a terrible strategy for beginners. When you’re just starting out, your Zone 2 is extremely small — which means even a slow jog can push your heart rate into higher zones. That doesn’t mean you’re unfit, broken, or doing something wrong. It simply means your body is adapting and your aerobic system isn’t fully developed yet. That’s normal.

Instead of stressing about staying in Zone 2, I’ll show you what beginners should actually focus on:

1. Learning the skill of running 2. Using RPE instead of obsessing over heart rate 3. Using the talk test to guide effort 4. Building fitness gradually without panic 5. Allowing your aerobic base to develop over time

Zone 2 absolutely has its place later in your running journey — but forcing yourself to live there too early can make running stressful, discouraging, and unnecessarily complicated. Let’s make this simpler, more beginner-friendly, and actually enjoyable.

If you want support getting started with running in a way that feels realistic, sustainable, and confidence-building, check out my beginner running programs below. You don’t need to be perfect — you just need a smarter approach.

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