Those 'gel packs' ?

Of course you can take it before start if it`s for energy which I think all gels are! But I don`t think it will help a lot! May be something but not a lot! So first be sure that your nutrition is OK, specially pre-race nutrition!

sparknote_s said:

I have one more cross country race in one week. Lately I've noticed that before my race, I'm out of energy. I can tell when I start the race, I'm just drained. I see these gel packs in biking stores, and I had one during a ride (hammer gel i think). Do you think this could be used for a cross country race? The race takes about 17 minutes, perhaps I could eat it 5 minutes before the start.

Any advice?

Why dont you prepare even before starting? Eat a high carb meal 3hours before the race and you should have a staying power throughout. Of course, gels can be taken 30-40 minutes when already in the race. Good luck!

tanggoman said:

Why dont you prepare even before starting? Eat a high carb meal 3hours before the race and you should have a staying power throughout. Of course, gels can be taken 30-40 minutes when already in the race. Good luck!

I'd most definetly try the gel, but i'd first try it on a practice ride, just to get the feel of what one would do for you.