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

Resting Heart Rate for Runners | Is My HR Too Low?

Learn why endurance athletes have a lower resting heart rate. And find out what's an average resting HR and when to worry it's too low.

9 Must Do Training Tips for Older Runners

It’s easy to tell yourself that you’re too old to start running. Heck, 20-year-olds find themselves thinking that after that first surprisingly hard mile, but if you’re already receiving jokes…

Best Running Shoes for Shin Splints + 6 Tips to Prevent It

When you have shin splints, boy, do you know it! They’re the bane of many runners’ training—whether you’re new to running or more experienced. How to prevent shin splints running…

How to Train for a 5K (According to a Running Coach)

Want to run a 5K but don't know where to start? This guide by running coach Amanda Brooks covers everything you need to complete your first 5K.

Best Marathon Training Plan: Comparing 6 Training Methods

Have you ever wondered the difference between all the marathon training plans out there? How do you begin to pick a marathon training plan? Will a free marathon plan off…

Best Running Belts That Won’t Slip or Bounce and Carry it All

Looking for the best running belt? This guide features the top 8 ones on the market according to a running coach, and also what to look for when buying one.

How Far Did I Run? 4 Easy Ways to Track Your Running Distance

A complete guide to help you not only answer the question, 'how far did I run?' but also provide the tools you need to enjoy your runs more.

Nike ZoomX Invincible 3 Review

ZoomX is the lightest fastest cushion made by Nike, so what happens when you put it in a stability shoe? A detailed Nike Invincible 3 review!

76 Running Websites to Train Smarter, Reduce Injuries and Have Fun

For years Run To The Finish was just a blog about my running and then suddenly in 2012 my journalism roots took hold and it became a full fledged running…

Walk-to-Run Program + 10 Keys to Make the Transition

Printable 10 Week Walk to Run Program is truly designed to ease you in to some running. Starting with mostly walks and progresses gradually.

Best Balance Boards For Standing Desks or Home Workouts

Want to increase your movement while working or challenge your core? These are the best balance boards for different needs and price range.

Plantar Fasciitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments + Best Shoes

Here's a detailed plantar fasciitis recovery plan from a physical therapist including the causes, symptoms, treatment and the best shoes.

Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 Review | A Revolution in Footwear

Nike has once again revolutionized the world of running footwear with the introduction of the Nike Vaporfly 2. Which is how we’ll be referring to the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%2…

How to Increase Mitochondria

Learn more about how to increase mitochondria with 7 quick tips you can put in to practice. Understanding more about why it matters.

What to Wear for a Marathon | Marathon Gear for All Weather

Marathons happen regardless of weather. Knowing what to wear for a marathon in any condition is key to a great race. Learn it all in this guide.

Transitioning from the Half to Full Marathon: What You Need to Know for Beginner Marathon Training

If you’re ready to tackle that first marathon, I’m supremely happy you’re learning to transition from the half marathon to marathon. It’s a massive win to have that training under…

Guide to Running Heart Rate Zones + How to Calculate

Here's how to determine your running heart rate zones, along with their benefits, and how to use them to help you produce the best possible training effects.

Heart Rate While Running: What’s Average? How to Use It?

As a runner have you wondered about average heart rate while running? Learn why you should track, the benefits, and training methods you can use.

Nude Running: A New Trend in Fitness and Body Positivity

Clothing optional races or nude running is a growing trend! Interested to find out why and where you can test it out, read on!

Best Dynamic Stretches for Runners (How and Why To Do Them)

Dynamic stretches help warm up your muscles before a run or workout. If you've always wanted to know what they are and how to do them, read this complete guide!

Best Altra Running Shoes + What Makes Them Unique

Curious about Altra Shoes? Find out what the 5 Best Altra running shoes are and the three things that set every Altra shoes apart from every other brand.

Fastest Mile Ever Ran: A History and Top Times Breakdown

The record for the fastest mile ever ran continues to change. See how far the world record has come since Roger Bannister broke four-minutes in 1954.

How to Start Running: Easy 15 Step Guide From a Running Coach

Day one things feel simple enough, you throw on a pair of shoes (any pair will do right?) and walk out in to the crisp air, head held high and…

How Many Steps in a Mile Walking or Running? (Men + Women)

How many steps in a mile walking or running? This depends on 5 factors and varies depending on gender. Here's how to figure out your personal steps in a mile.

Nordic Walking: What It Is and 5 Health Benefits

Have you ever been on a trail or walking/running around your town and seen people walking with poles? Maybe you thought they needed them for balance or are just wishing…

9 Ways to Manage Pre-Race Nerves for More Fun and Faster Times

What if instead of fighting your nervous, you found a way to use them and thus felt more confident an calm? Keys to manage pre-race nerves.

17 Funniest Running Memes – Which One’s Do You Relate To?

Running memes are so relatable regardless of whether you're a seasoned runner or a beginner. Which ones do you relate to? Check out the 17 funniest memes here.

Bose Tempo Sunglasses Review

Looking for a great headphone sunglasses combo for running, biking or hiking? Let's dive in to this Bose Sunglasses review and see if they're for you.

How Long Do Running Shoes Last? Plus When to Replace Them

How long do running shoes last? Is it based on mileage or time? And what factors determine when they need to be replaced. Everything you need to know.

Heel Toe Drop: What It Is And Why It Matters

Finding the right running shoes plays a critical role in our running experience. The materials they’re made of, the type of support they offer, the amount of cushion, and the…

Half Marathon Race Strategy | Pacing, Fueling and More

Half marathon race day tips that are going to help you succeed. Learn how to pace your fastest half marathon finish yet!

5 Best Treadmill Walking Workouts for Every Level

Treadmill walking provides a great way to work out without having to go outside or spend a lot of time and effort. Find out how to lose weight with treadmill…

5 Easy Ways to Avoid Chafing + Best Chafing Creams

Inner thigh chafing is super common for runners, but it happens in others areas too. Let's prevent it with these tips and best chafing creams.

How to Use Kinesiology Tape to Reduce Swelling

Kinesiology tape can be used with various injuries because it is going to help improve and increase circulation. You may hear KT tape referenced a lot but remember that it…

VO2 Max Chart: What’s a Good VO2 Max and Why it’s Important

VO2 max remains the gold standard for measuring cardiovascular fitness. Here’s what it is, how to use a VO2 Max chart, and also learn what a good VO2 max is.

Treatment for Runner’s Knee vs. Jumper’s Knee

Jumper’s knee, or patellar tendonitis, is different than runner's knee or patellofemoral pain. Jumper’s vs runner’s knee treatment ideas here!

VKTRY Insoles Review | Carbon Fiber Insoles for Athletes

Are you curious about carbon fiber, but love your current shoe? This VKTRY insoles review, will help breakdown how they feel and work.

Complete Guide to Best Cheap Running Gear (Top 10 Websites)

Cheap running gear doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. This complete guide shares the best sites for top-quality affordable running gear

NordicTrack vs Peloton: Which Treadmill is Better for You?

When it comes to large screens and online live classes on high-end treadmills, you know it's all about NordicTrack vs Peloton. Find out which is right for you.

Tracksmith Eliot Runner Review

Read our review to learn about Tracksmith Eliot Runner fit and feel for a daily running shoe, compared to other brands.

4 Options for How to Dry Running Shoes (What you MUST Avoid)

Drying running shoes isn’t rocket science, but there are certainly a few things to avoid to help ensure the life of your running shoes.

Asics Gel Kayano 29 Review

The ASICS GEL Kayano was first released in 1993 and due to its popularity is now on the 29th edition! I got my first pair with the special edition NYC…

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!