About the Author

Amanda Brooks

I am a running coach with over a decade of experience helping thousands of runners to achieve their goals from running injury free to crossing that marathon finish line with a PR. I've run over 28,000 miles in my own running journey since 2002. Run To The Finish is my place to share that love and my deep dive in to researching all things running. I hold multiple run coaching certifications, as well as a personal training certification. But it's my ongoing desire to learn and progress as a coach that has allowed me to help runners from their 20's through their 70's! More ways to connect with me:

Amanda Brooks

Don’t Sleep on Redding California Marathon Race Vacation

Looking for a fast marathon with a great vacation attached? Checkout why we love the Redding California marathon

Best Saucony Running Shoes: Complete Buyer’s Guide

Is it time to upgrade your running shoes? To help you decide, we’ve ranked the 7 best Saucony running shoes right now.

Altra Vs Brooks Running Shoes | How Running Shoes Compare

Breaking down the major differences and what model shoe you may like best from Altra vs Brooks running shoes.

Pre Workout Snack Ideas (Easy, Foolproof Snacks to Try!)

Figuring out whether you should eat before a run and what exactly to eat can feel like you’re going down a rabbit hole of conflicting advice. Over the years, I’ve…

Saucony Triumph 23 Real-World Testing of Max Cushion

This is now the 4th iteration of the Triumph for my foot and we continue to be a very happy match. Let’s talk about what’s new for the Saucony Triumph …

Running with IT Band Syndrome | An Honest Take on How to Recover

If you have a tight ITBS causing outer knee pain or shooting pain up your leg, these IT Band exercises work. Plus a guide to prevent it again.

Groin Pain After Running: 9 Possible Causes, Treatments, & Prevention

Groin pain during or after running is not to be brushed off. Use this to discover the cause, treatment and recovery plan to run again.

Complete Marathon Pace Chart: Every Split for Every Goal Time

Our marathon pace chart will shows goal pace by miles or kilometers. You'll also find pace splits for 5k, 10k and half.

Most Comfortable Hoka Walking Shoes (from a Trainer)

Looking for a new pair of shoes to hit your daily step goal? After lots of testing, here's our list of the Best Hoka Walking Shoes.

11 Best Protein Powder for Runners | Whey vs Plant Based

Is there a best protein powder for runners, for women, for performance? Exploring from plant-based to whey, the benefits and drawbacks in this guide.

10 Tips for How To Run Without Getting Tired

The quest to run without getting tired is a common challenge among runners of all levels. Whether we simply want to go farther without feeling out of shape or we…

New Balance Vs Brooks | Finding the Right Running Shoe

If you're looking for a wider toe box the New Balance Vs Brooks debate is quick. There's more debate if you're comparing cushion and stability

5 Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Standing & Walking All Day (From A Trainer)

If you're spending a lot of time on your feet, you can't go wrong with Hoka. Our multitester review of the best options for walking or work.

Hoka vs Asics: Which Brand Wins for Cushioning, Fit & Durability?

Comparing Hoka vs ASICS running shoes could largely be described as a difference in fit and feel, along with some company philosophy if you care about those things. But of…

Hoka Clifton Vs Mach | Which Neutral Cushioned Trainer To Pick?

Updated with newest tested models, HOKA Clifton Vs Mach, comparing fit, feel and features to help you decide.

Couch to 10K Training Plan: Complete Beginner’s Guide to Running 6.2 Miles

This step-by-step Couch to 10K training plan will help you run your first 10K using a proven run/walk method to build endurance with control.

Hoka Skyflow Review – Our 300 Mile Update

Hoka has added a new cushioned shoe to the line up, filling a gap between Clifton and Bondi. A full Hoka Skyflow review of features and fit

Average Mile Time for Runners: What’s Normal and What’s Impressive?

Numerous factors determine how long does it take to run a mile. Let's compare the top mile race times, with more average mile paces during training.

Benefits of Running a Mile a Day

Whether you’re a beginner runner just starting your running journey or an experienced runner getting back in the game, the goal of running a mile a day can be a…

25 Runner Quirks We Don’t Realize are Super Weird

It’s time once again for another episode of funny runner moments. This is my ongoing reminder that what we’re doing just isn’t that serious and taking a moment to laugh…

Best Ways To Recover After A Long Run

Proper recovery is extremely important after a run, particularly a long one. In this article we explore how to recover after a long run to keep training going strong.

Best Running Sunglasses: Find Out How They Impact the Quality of Your Run

The best sunglasses for running will actually help reduce stress and improve your overall run! So don't just grab the cheapest pair you can

Hoka Mafate X Review | Going The Distance

The Hoka Mafate X is a max cushioned carbon plated shoe that you'll love for the long miles on any terrain. Our team put them to the test

Walking 2 Miles a Day: Tips How to Get Started

Walking two miles per day is a great way to work out, whether your goal is to lose weight, or improve your overall health. Learn how to get started here.

We’ve Tested Hundreds of Shoes – Here are 10 Best Running Shoes for Knee Pain

Running shoes for knee pain are going to provide a good balance of cushion and support. Find out what a run coach recommends.

Suunto Vs Polar | Comparing Features and Models

Finding the right GPS watch is worth a little research time because it’s a high ticket piece of gear and you want it meet your needs! Let’s look at Suunto…

Wahoo KICKR Run Treadmill Review | Advanced Training for Everyone

Who knew you could reinvent the treadmill? The Wahoo KICKR Run treadmill is a whole new era of innovation and we're sold.

Running With a High Heart Rate: When To Worry

Although exercise is generally considered good for heart health, running with a high heart rate may signal a problem. What you need to know.

15 Best Free Running Apps to Master Your Runs

When it comes to free running apps, I wonder if new runners realize just how lucky they are and what’s available to make your running life easier. A great running…

How to Run a Sub 2 Hour Half Marathon: 14 Tried and Tested Tips to Get Faster

Running a sub 2 hour half marathon is possible for just about any runner. A run coach provides all the tips to hit a sub two pace!

Brooks Ghost 16 Review | Same But Different

Read our review to learn about Brooks Ghost 16 fit and feel for a daily running shoe, compared to the 15 and Ghost max.

10 Best Running Shoes For Beginners

The right running shoe can improve performance and reduce injury risk. A run coach recommends the best running shoes for beginners based on fit, support, and comfort.

What to Eat Before a Race: Best Carbs for Performance and Digestion

One of the biggest questions runners have when increasing is what to eat before a race. Whether it’s before, during, or after a run there are a lot of factors…

15 Running Workouts to Improve Speed and Stamina

Best running workouts for 5K to marathon that work for any runner to get faster and stronger in your next big race. Add variety to training.

Best Running Movies: 10 To Help Find that Mojo

The best running movies you can stream right now to get your motivation going pre-race, for cross country or through the winter!

Zero Drop Running Shoes: What Are They + Pros and Cons

Why do runners like zero drop running shoes? Are they right for you? Here we take a deeper look into the pros and cons, along with how to start wearing…

17 Running Games for Kids: How to Get Kids Running for Fun

Kids running is something that always gets me so excited. They start off with so MUCH ENERGY. And when it’s all about play like running games that energy stays high.…

10K Training Plans: A Complete Guide to Achieving Your Race Goals

In this article you’ll find a great 10K training plan and learn how to tailor the plan for beginner, intermediate and even advanced runners.

10 Best Half Marathons Around the World

Here are the best half-marathons around the world, based on a combination of scenery, experience, epic fun and course. Check them out!

Hoka Clifton Vs Bondi: We Tested Both Hoka Shoes – Here’s the Verdict

Updated with newest tested models of Clifton Vs Bondi. Understand how these two differ and which to pick for your runs.

6 Best Under Desk Treadmills

A treadmill desk is not for everyone! But if you have the space for one, it can be a great way to get in some exercise and work at the…

What to Wear for a Half Marathon (Guide For All Temps)

Do you know what to wear for a half marathon? This is a list of clothing to consider when running a half marathon race.