Episode #277. Curious about the buzz around Zone 2 training? Dr Inigo San Millan, an expert in metabolic health and sports performance, joins me to decode the science behind Zone 2. Learn how to fine-tune your exercise intensity for metabolic flexibility, longevity, and peak performance.

We discuss:

Introduction (00:00)
Understanding Metabolic Health (2:21)
Metabolic Health Among Elite Athletes: Exploring the Perfection of Studying (6:40)
Metabolic Health, Mitochondria, and Nutrition (8:00)
Defining 'Metabolise' (14:41)
Exploring Metabolic Flexibility (18:33)
Determining the Causes of Mitochondrial Dysfunction (21:01)
The Role of Oxygen in Energy Production Mechanisms (24:44)
Comprehending Energy Zones (28:07)
Energy Metabolism Mechanisms: Glucose vs. Fat (40:27)
Zone 2's Optimal Stimulation of Mitochondria (45:29)
Lactate's Impact on Mitochondria: Unraveling the Effects (50:46)
Managing Lactate Levels: Strategies Employed by Athletes (59:37)
Establishing an Aerobic Base (1:15:13)
Inducing Mitochondrial Stimulation Through Zone 2 Training (1:17:31)
Strategies for Enhancing Mitochondrial Count (1:19:27)
Carbohydrates' Influence on Metabolic Health (1:29:26)
Metabolic Health in Sedentary Lifestyles: Understanding the Impact (1:31:04)
Zone 2 Demystified: Unveiling Its Significance (1:37:59)
Recognizing Zone 2: How to Identify Your State (1:39:57)
Monitoring ATP Production Fuel via Specialized Devices (1:49:12)
Zone 2's Role in Fat Loss: Separating Fact from Fiction (1:53:49)
Optimizing Zone 2 Intensity for Maximum Results (1:59:59)
Weekly Zone 2 Prescription for Robust Mitochondrial Health (2:07:24)
Effective Modalities for Zone 2 Training: Making Informed Choices (2:11:50)
Resistance Training's Integration within Zone 2 Regimen (2:18:11)
The Optimal Timing for Zone 2 Training: Navigating the Day (2:20:29)
Supplements and Their Relevance to Zone 2 (2:26:17)
Summarizing the Essence of Zone 2 (2:35:06)
Amplifying Training Benefits: Embracing Zones 3 and 4 (2:38:17)
Outro (2:40:04)

Connect with Dr Inigo San Millan on Instagram and Twitter/X. If you’d like to listen to the episode with Dr Herman Pontzer that we mentioned in this conversation, you can do so here.

Optimise your health with InsideTracker’s biomarker analysis. Get exclusive access to InsideTracker’s new ApoB test, and a 20% discount at insidetracker.com/simon.

For more insights and supporting studies, visit The Proof website for the full show notes.

Enjoy, friends.

Simon

Want to support the show?

The best way to support the show is to use the products and services offered by our sponsors. To check them out, and enjoy great savings, visit theproof.com/friends. You can also show your support by leaving a review on the Apple Podcast app and/or sharing your favourite episodes with your friends and family.

Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)

Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill

Author of The Proof is in the Plants

Watch the episodes on YouTube or listen on Apple/Spotify

Connect with me on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook

Nourish your gut with my Plant-Based Ferments Guide

Download my complimentary

Two-Week Meal Plan and high protein Plant Performance recipe book

Sasha Learns the Lingo