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

TheraIce Review | The Ice Pack Upgrade Everyone Has Been Looking For

TheraIce makes heat and cold therapy easier with compression sleeves that actually stay put. We tested options for ankles, knees, shoulders and more.

Best Fitness Gifts for Women in 2026, Tested by Female Coaches

Looking for the best fitness gifts for women? Female coaches tested these workout, recovery, running and gym gifts for every budget in 2026.

31 Best Fitness Gifts for Men in 2026, Tested from Gym to Nature

Learn the best fitness gifts for men, including those who run, do yoga, mountain bike, hike, and more. These workout gift ideas for him won't disappoint.

Best Running Leggings for Women In 2026 | The Best Tights for Every Type of Run

We check out the best running leggings and pick the overall best pair. We also look at what matters in running tights for women.

The Fall Outdoor Gear I’ll Be Using Straight Through Winter

There’s a very specific point every fall in Colorado when we head to a mountain trail and I realize, I’m woefully underdressed, summer is over. The mornings are colder, the…

Chirp Contour Review | Like An Expensive Massage Chair, But Cheaper and Better?

Chirp Contour review after testing its massage, heat, and decompression features. See how it feels, who it’s best for, and whether it’s worth $550.

What Is Nike ACG? Our Favorite Gear for Running, Hiking and Exploring

What is Nike ACG? We break down Nike’s All Conditions Gear lineup and the best pieces for trail running, hiking and outdoor adventures.

35 Best Gifts for Runners in 2026, Run Tester Approved

What are the best gifts for runners? Find out a running coach's gift ideas for runners. Shop an array of running gifts for Christmas, birthdays, beyond.

Best Running Gels For Long Runs and Race Day

We tested the best running gels for long runs, half marathons and marathons. Compare carbs, texture, caffeine and stomach friendly options.

20 Cheap Gifts for Runners Under $25 That They’ll Actually Use

Looking for presents under $25 for runners, then we have what you need! A good round up of creative ideas for friends or run group.

25 Best Stocking Stuffers for Runners in 2026

Looking for some small gifts for runners to stuff a stocking, a group run or just because they deserve it, we've got you covered.

27 Running Costume Ideas For Halloween and How to Run In Them

Running a race on Halloween? Here are 27 running costume ideas and tips for everyone from the serious DIY'er to the last-minute planner that will keep it a fun run.

Couch to Half Marathon – 20 Week Plan

Here's a complete training couch to half marathon plan with tips, tricks, and a schedule that's designed for success. Breaking down all the pieces.

10 Best Running Shoes for High Arches (+ Exercises)

Here are the 7 best running shoes for high arches, along with the exercises you need to prevent ankle pain and injuries due to high arches.

Best Running Rain Jackets | Tested By Runners in the Elements

We've put the best rain running jackets to the test in wet weather from rain to snow, here's what we found worked best.

COROS Vs Garmin | Which is Right for You

Have you seen Coros and wondered how does it stack up to the traditional Garmin watch? We'll compare features and models to help.

How to Choose Your Marathon Goal Pace (What’s Your Race Pace)

You've got your sights set on a new PR but are you selecting a marathon goal pace that's realistic? Here's a complete guide to setting the right race pace.

Marathon Pacing Strategy: How to Pace 26.2 Miles to Finish Strong

Learn the best marathon pacing strategy by mile, including how fast to start, when to push, and how to adjust marathon pace for hills, heat and race day conditions.

NYC Marathon Course Tips + Common NYC FAQs

Anyone getting ready to run the NYC Marathon needs to read this post! Here’s everything you need to know in advance to have the best day possible. Hopefully these few…

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.

Marathon Pace Chart: Mile & KM Splits for Every Goal Time

Find your marathon pace per mile and kilometer for any goal finish time. Use our marathon pace chart to see race splits from the start through 26.2 miles.

Adidas Adizero Pro 5 Review | A Faster, More Stable Marathon Super Shoe

The Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 5 feels like the shoe Adidas has been working toward for the last few years. The brand has its wildly fast, incredibly stripped down Adizero…

Race Day Tips | 12 Mistakes Runners Make and How to Avoid Them

You’ve put in the training, survived the long runs, figured out your race-day outfit and probably checked the weather approximately 47 times. Now it’s time to make sure a few…

Half Marathon Pacing Strategy: How to Pace Your Best 13.1

Learn how to pace a half marathon without going out too fast. Get a coach’s mile by mile strategy, plus adjustments for heat, hills and altitude.

10 Best Wide Toe Box Running Shoes

Wide toe box running shoes offer extra room for toes to avoid rubbing, blisters, and other foot problems. These 10 meet your different needs!

Fall Training Support Giveaway

Temps are dropping, races are filling up the calendar and we want to keep all your fitness goals going strong. Ok fine the temps may not have dropped yet, but…

Best Winter Running Gear: We Tested 100+ Items in All the Weather

Discover the best winter running gear for cold-weather training, from budget-friendly to items worth the splurge. We put it to the test to find the best.

On Cloudtilt Review | Why I Love it For Walking, Travel and Everyday Wear

We review hundreds of running shoes, so we can tell you where the Cloudtilt fits compared with an actual running shoe, and whether you really need running-shoe technology just to…

Iron Deficiency in Runners: Symptoms, Ferritin Levels, and Treatment

Runners are more prone to low iron than the average person. Learn exactly why, how to get tested as well as how to treat runners anemia.

New Balance SuperComp Rebel Review | A Super Trainer That Feels Race Ready

We tested the New Balance SuperComp Rebel, a fun, bouncy super trainer that delivers race day speed at a more approachable price and comes in wide.

6 Unexpected Marathon Travel Tips For Your Best Race

Use these marathon travel tips and tricks to combat some of the most common-stressors of air travel and reduce the risk of jeopardizing race performance

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

Our team of wide foot testers has been on the roads and trails to find the best options. We think this wide foot running shoes are the top picks.

10 Best Running Socks | Overlooked and Undervalued Gear!

The right pair of running socks can make all the difference in comfort and blister prevention. Here are the 10 best running socks + what to consider when buying.

The Best Compression Socks for Long Runs, Recovery, and Travel

Compression socks are one of those running accessories that can leave you wondering, do I actually need these? The idea behind compression is pretty simple. These snug-fitting socks are designed…

Best Running Shoes Of 2026 | 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.

Finally Earbuds I Can Sleep In | Fitnexa Somnipods 3 Review

Looking for earbuds you can actually sleep in? The Fitnexa SomniPods 3 offer a comfortable fit, effective noise cancellation, and built in sleep sounds.

Read This Before Buying the Asics Novablast 6

The ASICS Novablast 6 delivers a completely redesigned underfoot feel that will excite some runners while leaving others missing the previous version.

The HOKA Clifton Pro Is Better Than the Clifton 11. Here’s Why.

Wondering if the HOKA Clifton Pro is worth it? We compare it to the Clifton 11 and explain who should choose each daily trainer.

The Hoka Clifton 11 Shows Where Hoka Is Putting Their Running Tech, and It Is Not Here

I've run in every Hoka Clifton model ever made. Here is my honest take on whether the Clifton 11 still holds up as a daily trainer favorite.

Not Every Foam Roller Feels the Same. These Are Worth Buying.

From density to size to vibration, everything you need to know to buy the right foam roller for runners. A deep dive and recommendations.

Best Saucony Running Shoes 2026: Top Picks for Comfort, Speed, and Support

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

90 Funny & Motivational Race Signs | Marathon Posters & Banners

Snag over 90+ Funny & Motivational Race Sign ideas to help you create marathon signs and be a supporter they can't help but see and LOVE!