RunToTheFinish

Online Running Coach | Running Shoe and Gear Reviews

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

Why Running in Bad Air Quality Is Worse Than You Think (And What to Do Instead)

Unfortunately the number of days that poor air quality is effecting us each year has gone up with more wildfires or in some cases more pollution. It’s critical to understand…

Saucony Kinvara 16 Review | Beats Every Other Lightweight Running Shoe

Holding the title best of is hard from runners who test a lot of gear, but we love the Saucony Kinvara 16 for so many, find out why.

Echelon Connect EX-5 Spin Bike Review: All the Classes, None of the Screen Premium

Looking for a spin bike that's versatile, easy to move and yet commercial quality? Find out what our testers though of Echelon Connect EX-5

Garmin Forerunner 570 vs 265 | Do Phone Calls Justify the Price Jump?

Garmin Forerunner 570 is the only model in their advanced line up of watches, what are you getting for the price? We're not sure it's enough.

7 Best Walking Treadmills For At Home

From people who walk every day, here are the best at home walking treadmills to help you hit that 10,000 steps goal with ease.

Nike Pegasus vs Nike Vomero | Daily Trainer Showdown

Deciding between the Nike Vomero and Nike Pegasus has been a long-standing conundrum. I love that brands have such diverse line ups and yet it’s also confusing to know what…

Runner’s Face: The Anti-Aging Secret Every Endurance Athlete Needs

Maybe you've heard the term runner's face and now you wonder if running is aging you? Let's talk about it and what you can do for your skin.

ASICS Metaspeed Sky vs Edge Tokyo Review

ASICS super shoe has gotten another update with even lighter foam, we review both models and explore ASICS Metaspeed Sky vs Edge Tokyo.

Best Running Shoes Of 2025 | We Tested 100+ Models So You Don’t Have to

The best running shoes right now after thousands of miles of testing from our team. We've got options for every need.

Are Curved Treadmills Better? Plus Which Ones Are Best

Curved treadmills are manual, self-powered treadmills with a concave shape. Learn all you need to know here, and which one is right for you!

10 Must Do Core Workout Exercises for Runners

Core workouts for runners are more than just a once in a while workout program; it’s movements that can improve running performance and also reduce the risk of injuries. Core…

New Balance Vs ASICS | Finding the Right Running Shoe

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

On Cloud vs ASICS Running Shoes

How different do On Cloud vs Asics running shoes feel? Which offers more cushion and which offers more stability? We tested them!

True Grit: What to Do When Your Body Says Go But Your Mind Says No

Do you ever have trouble just “getting out there”? Feeling unmotivated to show up for your planned workout?? You know that once your legs start moving the endorphins will kick…

Fashionable Athletic Shoes Proving Running Brands Know Style

When you want to feel stylish and show off your athletic side, it's time to look to common running brands for fashionable athletic shoes.

Nike vs Saucony Running Shoes: Comparing Top Models

The Alphafly vs the Endorphin elite is just part of the Nike vs Saucony story, we'll look at overall fit and features along with other models.

On Cloud vs Nike Running Shoes

How different do On Cloud vs Nike running shoes feel? Which offers more cushion and which offers more stability? We tested them!

Saucony vs Hoka Running Shoes

How different do Saucony vs Hoka running shoes feel? Which offers more cushion and which offers more stability? We tested!

Running Shoe Release Dates Calendar

A breakdown of what new running shoes will be released this year from each of the major brands! Release dates and reviews for top shoes.

Average Walking Speed by Age (and Gender): Are You Faster or Slower Than Normal?

What is the avg walking speed km/h by age? Or the average walking speed mph by gender? Let's break it all down now!

50 Running Mantras: Why They Work, What Elite Runners Use

The mental side of running is often joked about, but it’s truly a massive component of having a great training cycle and race day. There is a lot we can…

The Strength Training Program Every Runner Needs (From Real Running Coaches)

Complete strength training program for runners from bodyweight to heavy lifting, create your own or follow a plan, we've covered it all.

Wahoo TRACKR HR Monitor Review | The Chest Strap that Connects to Everything

We know that chest straps are the gold standard for training by heart rate.  Since HR is a metric I love to use, it was time to checkout the Wahoo…

11 Best Wide Foot Running Shoes (Basics to 4E Fit)

Wide running shoes offer extra room to avoid rubbing, blisters, and other foot problems. Our list of the best options!

Confessions of a Run Coach: We Wish You Knew Before Starting

Ever wondered what your run coach or personal trainer are thinking when you show up bright eyed full of 600 goals? Some funny true insights

Hoka Mach vs New Balance Rebel

Side by side comparison of Hoka Mach 6 vs New Balance Rebel V4. Talking fit, feel and function of two similar lightweight running shoes.

Running Recovery Tools: What Works vs. What’s Just Expensive Hype

Running recovery involves a lot of factors from rest to nutrition, but the right muscle recovery tools can help to speed up the process. Here's a full guide.

Peeing While Running | 5 Common Causes and Solutions

Ladies take heart, you are not alone if this issue has cropped up for you! From childbirth to other daily habits, there are things that could be causing peeing while…

10 Best Running Hydration Packs and Vests Right Now

Here's how to buy a running hydration pack for marathon to trails. Tested and recommended by a running coach with 20 years experience.

Inspired by Faith Kipyegon? How to Run a Faster Mile Right Now

After Faith Kipyegon’s incredible attempt to break the 4 minute mile, we’ve got a feeling the mile is about to have a serious moment in the running community. If you’re…

16 Best Half Marathons in US By State (A few International Bonuses)

It's time for your next racecation, so here's a round-up of the best half marathons in the US from state to state and why you need to do a destination…

Teva Aventrail: Why Running in Sandals Isn’t Actually Crazy

Should you try running sandals? Who's going to benefit from them and where do the Teva Aventrail running sandals fall in this discussion?

How to Taper for a Half Marathon: Timeline and Benefits

Tapering is one of the most important parts of any marathon training plan. Here's a complete guide to answering all your marathon tapering questions.

6 Best IT Band Exercises to Relieve Pain Once and For All

Pain in the IT band can sideline even the best of athletes and, unfortunately, IT band syndrome is all too common among runners and cyclists. Luckily there are IT Band…

Headache After Running (8 Main Causes + Solutions)

Have you been experiencing a headache after running? Don't worry, you can prevent them. Learn the 8 main causes for runners along with how to prevent it here.

53 Running Hacks for Summer, Running Faster, Saving Money and More

Looking running hacks for summer, to run faster or just some of the incredible tricks that long time runners know? Look no further!

Black Toenail Prevention: 7 Easy Tips to Avoid Runner’s Toe

Let’s start with this, Runner’s Toe, aka black toenails from running, is not required to be in the club and is not a 100% certainty for all runners. We often…

Best Hoka Running Shoes Review | Complete Comparisons

Over 7 years we've tested every single Hoka Running Shoe, We know their durability, cushion and fit to provided accurate recommendations.

How to Get Back Into Running Easily After a Long Break

Getting back in to running after a break can feel daunting, but there is a process that will help you get started and stick to it. Read on!

Treadmill Pace Conversion Chart and Tips

Ever hop on the treadmill, set a speed, and immediately wonder what that actually means for your pace outside? That’s why we pulled together a treadmill pace conversion chart you…

13 Ways to Avoid Running Burnout – Marathon Training and Beyond

Running burnout is real whether it's your first marathon training cycle, first 5K or looking for a big PR. When to stop and how to move on.

Is a 10 Minute Mile Good? (According to a Running Coach)

A 10 minute mile is a popular goal for beginning runners. But is it a good goal? Or is it considered slow? Here's what a seasoned running coach has to…

7 Secrets to Break Through

Feeling stuck? Discover which of the 7 most common runner issues is holding you back in this free program. Videos, interviews, workouts and more!