The riders have two important targets for each stage: one for carbohydrate intake per hour and one for fluid intake per hour. Depending on the specific stage, such as its duration and intensity, a plan is drawn up for the required carbohydrate intake during the ride. Simplicity in execution is one of the main principles here. After all, during hectic stages, where decisions have to be made continuously in the 'heat of the moment,' the riders need to be able to get their energy automatically.

Regardless of the specific ride, the riders are trained to consume three items per hour. On relatively calm days, the Amacx Energy Line is used, allowing riders to consume 3x 30 grams of carbohydrates, totaling 90 grams per hour. The 2:1 ratio between glucose and fructose ensures optimal absorption of up to 90 grams per hour. Since all bars, gels, and drinks from the Amacx Energy Line are perfectly matched, the riders have the flexibility to choose a combination of gels, bars, and/or drinks according to their preference.

On the toughest days in the Tour de France, such as the stage in the high mountains, the carbohydrate target for most riders is increased to about 120 grams per hour. To absorb these very large amounts effectively, the team switches to the Turbo Line on these days. This line contains a 1:0.8 ratio between glucose and fructose, making absorption possible. The practical execution does not change for the riders: they continue to aim for 3 items per hour. However, 3x 40 grams of carbohydrates now provide the required 120 grams per hour.

The other essential nutrient during the stage is fluid. To compensate for sweat losses, maintain body temperature, and avoid performance loss due to dehydration, the riders must drink on the go. How much exactly? That varies significantly from individual to individual. Moreover, it is strongly influenced by weather conditions. However, a rider loses an average of 1 to 2 liters of sweat per hour (and for some, this can be considerably higher in the heat). Sufficient drinking is therefore crucial. During most rides, the majority of riders aim for a fluid intake of at least two bidons per hour (= approx. 1 liter). They are free to drink a mix of Amacx Energy or Turbo Drink and water to ultimately meet both the carbohydrate and fluid targets. Riders who have difficulty replenishing their fluid losses and/or lose a lot of salts in their sweat also take extra Hydro Tabs in their bidons. This provides the necessary extra salts, which also help the body retain more fluid. The new Amacx Ice Gels are also very popular with the riders in warm conditions. Besides delivering the same amount of carbohydrates as the regular gels, these Ice Gels also improve performance in warm conditions through internal cooling.

To bring all of this together into a good and practical plan, Team Visma | Lease a Bike ensures a detailed plan is made before each stage, aligning all supply points along the course with the riders' needs. This aims to provide all riders with the necessary energy (carbohydrates), fluid, and cooling without them having to drop back to one of the support cars repeatedly. Additionally, the riders are reminded by the team leaders at regular intervals to eat and drink. All of this is designed to ensure the plan can be easily executed in practice.