Energy gels while training

In warm weather, I take one gel per hour and consume 20-30 oz (depending on sweat rate and saltiness of sweat) of Gatorade Endurance formula.

Only drink water to wash down the gels as it has little rehydrating effect.

I actually try to drink carb drink during the first half of my ride (usually 1.5 - 2 hours) and water during the second half. And Down a carb gel packet midway through my ride. Remember, everything takes time to digest and enter your system. Any energy you get a the begining of your ride will be coming from your meals and nutrition prior to activity. As you get toward the middle of your workout, you will be needing extra nutrition. This is the best time to draw from food and drink (the carb drink) already consumed. The energy gel at the midway point is really taken to help me push through the end of my workout. When other stores are depleted.