For morning training I try to eat something before I head out. Usually a small bowl of oatmeal or a bun/sandwich. 1.5-2hours into my ride, I will take a gel. That will get me through a 4hours ride. Depending on intensity might grab something at 3hour mark.
For morning indoor session, it will be the same but instead of gels, I will have gummy bears on standby for a boost. More cost effective. lol
For runs, I can’t run with food in my stomach. I havent tried gel as I dont run as much anymore.
For night rides less than 3hours, I dont need any gel as I do it after dinner.
Hope this helps. 