Definition
Mixed Mode workouts are Xert workouts that intentionally combine different trainer control modes—most commonly ERG for steady, controlled efforts and Slope/SIM (Resistance) for sprint-style or “ride it like outside” intervals. This lets a single workout include both precise, steady work and high-power efforts where ERG can feel restrictive.
Important Note: Mixed Mode workouts are not recommended for athletes who have a single gear on their indoor bike and/or rely on virtual shifting in platforms like Zwift. These workouts are best done using the Xert EBC app with the ability to change physical gears.
🎥 Video: Mixed Mode Workouts
Why It Matters
Some types of intervals aren't well-suited for ERG mode, especially high-power sprints or all-out intervals that are common with many of Xert's workouts. The Xert EBC automatically handles moving your trainer from ERG mode into SLOPE mode, where you'll need to use your gears and cadence to control your efforts.
By switching modes, Xert can:
- avoid the “ERG spiral of death" during high-power intervals if your cadence drops
- make sprint/attack intervals feel more natural and responsive
- better match real-world riding dynamics (especially race-like workouts)
- teach athletes how to use their gears & cadence to control their efforts
- allows athletes to push their limits and generate Breakthroughs
How It Works
In a Mixed Mode workout, intervals are created with different control expectations:
- ERG segments: trainer holds the target power regardless of your gear & cadence
- Slope intervals: you control your power using gearing and cadence (like outdoors)
Before starting a Mixed Mode workout, take a quick glance through the steps and look for intervals that end with “… at _% grade”. Those steps are meant to be ridden in Slope mode at the listed gradient — you will control power with gearing and cadence for those intervals. Steps that show a normal power/time target are completed in ERG mode.
Don’t worry if Mixed Mode feels unfamiliar at first. The goal isn’t perfect execution — it’s a more realistic riding experience, especially when paired with Xert’s SMART, dynamic intervals. Focus on riding hard when it asks and recovering when it tells you to; Xert will adapt targets in real time based on your fatigue.
What you’ll see during the workout depends on your workout player:
- Xert workout players (Xert EBC / Xert Workout Player for Garmin) can execute Mixed Mode as intended.
- Some third-party platforms don’t support mode changes, so Slope segments may appear as “Free Ride” blocks. Depending on the app, they may also not display any power target.
For the most consistent Mixed Mode + SMART experience, we recommend using the Xert EBC app.
Related article: Trainer Modes in Xert's Workout Players
Where You’ll See It
- In the workout description/details (#MIXEDMODE tag)
- During workout execution when the trainer mode changes between segments
- Commonly used in Xert's Sprint, Race-style, or Breakthrough-focused workouts
Common Misunderstandings
- “Free Ride” doesn’t mean the workout is broken. On platforms that don’t support Mixed Mode, Slope segments may display as Free Ride while you self-pace the effort.
- Mixed Mode isn’t random. Mode changes are deliberate so the interval feels correct (steady work in ERG, explosive work in Slope).
- ERG isn’t always best for sprints. For short all-out efforts, Slope/Resistance often provides a better experience.
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