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

Houston Marathon Course Tips and Training

Looking for information about the Houston marathon course? Here's what you need to have your best race day.

Base Building Running Plan: A Strong Foundation For Your Goals

If you plan to take up a new running program, a base building running plan is necessary. It focuses on developing a strong foundation.

10 Fun Workouts: Bring The Joy Back to Your Workouts

Are you unmotivated? Dragging yourself to the gym? Time to rethink what you believe is required to workout...fun workouts at home and outside

Running In Snow and Ice: 9 Tips to Stay Upright

Winter running brings with it a slew of challenges, but running on snow doesn't have to be one of them with these tips.

Zone 4 Heart Rate Explained | When and How to Use It

What is Zone 4 Heart Rate, when should I use it and what can I use it for? The answers to these questions and more are covered on this page.

How to Pack a Carry-on for 10 days in Europe (with workout gear!)

Long trip and you need to take only a carry on? Here's some great packing tips and outfit ideas to make it work for you.

27 Best Healthy Travel Snacks (Perfect for Plane or Road Trip)

Here's a complete guide to the best healthy travel snacks I recommend you have as a certified personal trainer and running coach! They're tasty and portable!

How to Run A Mile Without Stopping In 4 Weeks

Ready to go from run walk to a running a mile without breaks? Here's 10 key tips and a basic plan framework to make it happen.

9 Christmas Running Leggings | Celebrating in Style

Maybe it’s because it’s been a crazy year, maybe it’s because Brooks Running makes awesome holiday shoes now; I feel the need for Christmas running leggings. I was Forrest Gump…

Understanding the Maffetone Method | 13 Years Experience

Using heart rate for training doesn’t have to be complex and can indeed help you learn how to truly run EASY on your easy days to improve endurance. Low Heart…

8 Common Causes of Heel Pain After Running And How to Fix It!

Not sure what causes heel pain after you run? Learn about the most likely causes of running related heel pain, the most effective treatments.

Threshold Running and Workouts: What You Need to Know

Many runners know threshold running and workouts, but for those who don't, here is what you need to know during threshold training.

How to Combine Running and Weightlifting: Hybrid Athletes

How do you mix running and weightlifting? It’s a question that’s grown in popularity over the last 5 years as more runners realize the benefits of strength training and more…

5 Impacts of Drinking Beer After a Workout

Ever wondered if that beer your dream about during a long run is going to hinder your recovery? Dishing on the effects of alcohol after working out.

The Best High Protein Cookie Dough (Super Easy Recipe!)

When you’re craving a snack that’s high in protein but low in carbs and sugar, and tastes amazing, it’s time to whip up some high protein cookie dough! I’ve got…

Fast High Protein Power Bowl Meals: Recipes and Ideas

No time to meal plan? Time for a QUICK high protein power bowl meal to the rescue. FAST, healthy and satisfying meal ideas

10 Benefits of Treadmill Running | Why You Should Incorporate It

Treadmill running might just be the training tool that you've been missing to hit your next goal. 10 reasons a run coach recommends it.

On Cloudeclipse Review | The New Maximal Shoe in Town

Checking out a detailed review from testing the On Running Cloudeclipse maximum cushion running shoe. Find out what's different and if it's for you.

5 HTP: Happy Drug? What Is It and How Does it Work?

5-Hydroxytryptophan, more commonly known as 5-HTP, is an alternative treatment for anxiety and sleep disorders. Learn more about 5-HTP here.

Jogging vs. Running: Guide to Differences and Similarities

Are you a runner or a jogger? ? Here's a complete guide to the differences and similarities between jogging vs running according to a seasoned running coach.

SOAR Running Gear Review | High Performance Apparel

Is Soar Running Gear worth it? A honest review of testing many pieces of gear and details on fit, fabric and function.

Philadelphia Marathon Race Review and Tips

Anyone getting ready to run the Philadelphia Marathon needs to read this post! It’s everything I wish I’d known in advance to have the best day possible. Even as a…

TENS vs EMS: Can They Help with Recovery?

TENS and EMS are both used for muscle stimulation. They differ in the way they send the electrical impulses. Which is better? Here's what we found.

Running Shoe Rotation: Why It’s a Must For Your Training

How many types of running shoes do you need? Let's talk about why your running shoe rotation is so important and how to build it.

Treadmill vs Outside Running: What’s the Difference?

Should you run indoors on a treadmill or outside for exercise? Learn the pros and cons of each type of exercise and which is better for your fitness goals.

New Balance 1080 V13 Review (vs 1080V12) | Extra Bounce In Your Step

Find out how the New Balance 1080v13 has changed from previous models. What we like, dislike and if it's the right shoe for you.

Manual Vs Electric Treadmill: 7 Benefits and Drawbacks

What are the pros and cons of using a manual treadmill over an electric one? Find out here.

World Marathon Majors: What are the Big 6?

If you're looking for a list of must run marathons, why not start with the World Marathon Majors? A breakdown of how it works, what's involved and why it matters

9 Exercises for Glute Warm Up Before Running

Of the many mistakes I’ve made in my years of running (cough attempting to run without a sports bra when I forgot one…painful) the one thing that’s always been part…

5 Best Knee Support and Braces for Walking

Whether you have knee arthritis or a sprain, there is a knee support that can help. Learn how to choose and our top recommendations here.

13 Best Protein Bars for Runners (Taste, Ingredients + Quality)

After a long run or hard workout, runners often don’t feel like eating. Here are the best protein bars for runners to keep fueled!

9 Best Running Gloves from Light to Serious Warmth

Running long distances can lead to cold fingers, even during warm weather. Here are the 9 best running gloves according to a running coach that'll keep you warm

Marine Corps Marathon Course Tips and Training

Marine Corps marathon course guide and tips for training to help you have a great race. From a running coach and finisher.

27 Running Costume Ideas and Tips For Halloween and Beyond

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.

NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill Review (vs 1750)

A review of the NordicTrack 2450 Treadmill, comparing it to its successor, the 1750. Find out what features set them apart and why we love both.

Tired After a Workout? What’s Normal and What’s Not

A vigorous workout can make a person feel tuckered out. Feeling excessively weak or tired after a workout, something may be wrong.

Lower Back Pain From Running (11 Causes+ How to Fix It)

Lower back pain while running is extremely common, but it isn't something that you need to deal with. This article shares 11 causes plus 8 ways to fix it.

Roll Recovery R8 Review | Is it Worth the Price?

As a long time running coach, I’ve had my fair share of experiences with various recovery tools and techniques. In this review, I’ll introduce you to the Roll Recovery R8…

Cortisone Shots in Knee: Everything You Need to Know

Cortisone shots in knee seem like an ideal fix for pain, but there are long-term issues you need to know. How to make the right decision here

Why do Hands Swell While Walking or Running?

For some people, exercise can cause hands to swell. Find out what causes it and what you can do about it in this article here.

Burning Feet When Walking or Running: Causes and Solutions

Have you ever felt a burning sensation in your foot when walking, running, or sitting? Learn more about the causes and solutions here.

10 Best Quad Stretches for Runners

Running and other athletic activities place a lot of stress on the quads. A run coach provides 10 best quad stretches to help relieve soreness.