Advice needed!

[El Gordo]

I use gels on long runs and marathons, and I do think they have their place. However, a very important point is that they don't have an instant effect. Depending on who you ask, they might take 20-30 minutes to start working, so you need to anticipate the need. And even then, the noticeable effects won't last that long. But they do offer a little relief and extra energy when you most need it.

As for how many and how often. Again, this is just a personal habit but in a marathon I take one every 4 miles or so. After about 4 I can usually stomach no more, and am looking for the diversions you get towards the end of a race -- fruit in particular.

I started off on Lucozade Sport but these days favour Hi-5 or SIS. The high caffeine ones do seem to pack an extra punch.

Finally, the bad news. It's usually advised that you don't use them for the first time in a race, as they don't agree with everyone.

Good luck in the race. One of those events that is on my "One day..." list that I will almost certainly never achieve.

Can't advise on salt tablets as I've never used them, but I keep thinking they might help, so will be interested to hear how you fare.