If you know you're going to use gels on race day, Holland recommends mixing them ahead of time for easier access and ingestion.
"Pre-mix your gels with water or a sports drink and carry them in one of the water bottle/belt systems." Most belts carry four smaller bottles each, so you can mix two gels in each bottle (for a total of eight gels) so they are ready to drink regardless of where you are on the course, Holland says. "Gels are to be taken every 30-45 minutes; I prefer every 30."
