After a short break from rolling out new features, 
Xert is back and this time they appear to deviate from their relentless push with their power model to add some HR-related metrics.
Q: Is this a step backwards?
A: No…and here’s why
If you sometimes lose or don’t have power meter data then Xert’s new algorithm is designed to fill the gaps in your power data by using trends based on your HR/cadence/power over time.
Fine.
That’s probably of some use, albeit limited. Especially for me as my cadence data now always comes from my power meter…at least when outdoors. So I will never have just cadence and HR data without power.
HOWEVER, I suspect that the usefulness of this is more subtle and more longterm. I reckon this is one of the building blocks that are needed to look at the impact of fatigue (based on HR) and hence one of the steps needed to deliver a unified tri-model that incorporates the effects of running.
I currently DO regularly look at Xert now for any fleeting indication of a breakthrough session. Yet, I might start to use some of the other features in Xert more if I can’t find a solution to the 2020 closure of my beloved SportTracks 3.1 data.
Last Updated on 21 January 2026 by the5krunner
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tfk is the founder and author of the5krunner, an independent endurance sports technology publication. With 20 years of hands-on testing of GPS watches and wearables, and competing in triathlons at an international age-group level, tfk provides in-depth expert analysis of fitness technology for serious athletes and endurance sport competitors. ID
I’m hoping this is a first step towards a HR based Xert as well. Power meters are still the gold standard, but for many non cycling/running sports power just isnt easily obtainable – a Xert smart coach that can work from HR would help expand uptake in other sports for sure
yup. as you know it’s tricky when caffeine, cadence and fatigue come in to play when looking at HR.
did that company speak to you further about the power thing?