Building a strong cardio base isn’t just for endurance athletes—it’s the foundation for better recovery, improved performance, and long-term health. In this guide, you’ll learn why low-intensity Zone 2 training should be the backbone of your cardio plan, how high-intensity work fits into the bigger picture, and how to strike the right balance for stronger, faster, and more sustainable fitness.

Cardio is not what you do to burn extra calories, cardio is an exercise that you do to improve your heart health. Steady state, endurance cardio strengthens your entire heart and as a result, makes it healthier and more efficient. The cardiovascular adaptations of endurance training are most directly correlated with good health.