IME I don’t feel as challenged in Xert (compared to other services/plans I have tried) until Peak phase.
There is no question that many cyclists respond well to SST, but Xert is a hybrid polarized platform. The rates of improvement will differ.
More SS and VO2 max workouts during build will no doubt boost your fitness level faster. When those workouts are synced with Xert you should see the change in training load reflected in your signature and XSS recommendations.
I purposely select a BT workout every few weeks or whenever warned to by XATA.
I normally do BTs in resistance mode on a trainer and try to go all out during the efforts.
For a classic FTP test search the workout library for “ftp test”.
Want to challenge yourself? Search the library for “hardness” and try completing them in order (over weeks) starting with whatever diamond level you’re at now.
Want more VO2 workouts? Search for “vo2”.
IOW you don’t need to strictly accept recommended workouts when you feel especially fresh or want a challenge. Xert is flexible.
As to your original question see: Ramp Test
A RAMP test is a one-dimensional snapshot that roughly estimates your FTP on that day.
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