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

5 Habits of Successful People (learned in running)

You want to be a successful person? Become a runner. Seriously. These habits make runners more successful in business, relationships, health and more.

Long Flight Tips – An Active Travelers Guide to the Carry On

I keep saying that I need to buy a bigger suitcase for some of these long trips. But the truth is I love being economical with my packing because it’s…

How to Get Abs to Show (10 Straightforward Tips to Follow)

Looking for more ways to clean up your eats and add moves to whittle your middle to finally see your abs? Checkout the ongoing 30-day ab challenge filled with workouts…

The Only Pre-Run Stretches You Need

If there’s one thing you might know about my coaching philosophy, it’s that the pre-run stretches are a non-negotiable. I’m pretty flexible about how we do a lot of other…

How to Increase Running Distance? Key Methods and Timelines

How can I run farther? I feel like I need to run more to hit my goals. Does the 10% rule actually work? I love running and I just want…

37 Game Day Food Ideas (Best Football -Themed Food + Decor)

It’s football season, and you know what that means: delicious and easy appetizers, dip recipes, and more. But, if you’re like me, you want to enjoy your food but also…

9 Best Running Hairstyles for All Hair Lengths

Knowing the best running hairstyles is more than just aesthetics; it’s about being able to perform at your best, without needing to worry about your hair getting into your face…

11 Beach Running Tips, Benefits and Workouts

Beach running requires 1.6 times more energy expenditure than does running on hard surface! Try the workouts to do it safely and effectively

High Protein Overnight Oats (Easy, Make-Ahead Breakfast!)

If you’ve been on the hunt for a high-protein breakfast that’s not only delicious but easy to make as well then this High Protein Overnight Oats is exactly what you…

9 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…

Easy Vegetarian Chili Recipe (Packed with Flavor + Protein)

This Easy Vegetarian Chili recipe is the perfect comfort food when the weather starts getting chilly outside! But that’s not all that’s great about it; it packs a punch with…

Lock Laces Review: Why You Should Consider Trying Them

Lock Laces are the original no-tie lacing system that can convert your traditional lace-up shoes into convenient pull-ons that have a locking device for the most customized, and adjustable fit.…

How to Choose the Right Running Shoes (Online or In-store)

If you’re looking to understand how to choose the running shoes that are right for you and your feet, then this complete guide is perfect for you! As a running…

TRIHARD Review | 7 Keys to Runner Foot Care

Our feet are doing all of the hard work while running, so why do we skip out on giving them the attention we give to the rest of our bodies?…

21 Best Fitness Books That You Won’t Regret Reading

Looking for the best fitness books to help you achieve your fitness goals? This article includes 21 that are actually worth reading!

Garmin Fenix 7s Review | Comparing to 6s, Enduro and Others

The Garmin Fenix 7s stands out from others with solar charging, tons of activities and lifestyle tracking data. See all the details here.

AlterG Anti-Gravity Treadmill vs Lever Movement At Home

Why is the AlterG anti-gravity treadmill popular for rehab after injuries? What it feels like, why doctors love it and at home options for rehab

9 Best Carbs for Runners for All Runners (Complete Guide)

Looking for the best carbs for runners? This complete guide includes the 9 best ones, including how much you need to take, and why it's important for runners.

How to Make Your Own Running Training Plan: 5k to Marathon

Not everyone is interested in a running coach. Sometimes you just want to figure out what basic half marathon training plan (or other distance!) will actually work for you. There…

Brooks Vs Mizuno Running Shoes | Comparing Models

Feature comparison of Mizuno vs Brooks running shoes. Differences in key features, fit and comparable models.

How to Break in Running Shoes (Especially Before a Race)

Learn how to break in running shoes to avoid issues like blisters or foot pain. Breaking in running shoes before you race is important.

Nike Vs Brooks Running Shoes | Comparing Models

Feature comparison of Nike vs Brooks running shoes. Differences in key features, fit and comparable models.

Exakt Health App Review | Injury Rehab & Prevention for Runners

The Exakt Health App gives you detailed plans and workouts to follow or rehabbing from common running injuries, at ZERO cost. Let's dive in!

Ibuprofen Before Running: Why You Should or Shouldn’t Use It

If you’re a runner, at some point you’ve probably considered taking ibuprofen before running. Endurance athletes like marathon runners put themselves through rigorous weeks of training to be ready for…

Resistance Band Workout For Hips And Glute Activation

You might think that I work only two parts of my body: my legs during running and my hips during PT because well that’s what I talk about a LOT,…

Top 10 Foot Strengthening Exercises For Runners

No matter how fit you are, weak feet can leave you injured. Foot strengthening exercises can improve arch, ankle, tendon and muscle strength. Let’s take a look at some exercises…

Training for a 10K: A Guide to Training for Your Best 6.2

Are you planning to run a 10K? Then this guide to training for a 10K will lay down everything you need to know to have the best 10K ever for…

MOBO Board Review | Strength Training for your Feet

The MOBO Board is not just a circular piece of wood but a versatile tool that can be used to help prevent foot and ankle related injuries. As runners we…

Beet Juice for Runners: Does it Improve Endurance?

There's some evidence that consuming beet juice might improve running performance. Learn more about this claim, including why it might work.

Polar Pacer Pro Review – Entry Level Running Watch

This Polar Pacer Pro review will walk through the features of this entry level GPS watch and compare it to other Polar GPS models.

Tips for 10K Race Day: Pacing, Strategy and Fuel

Today we’re going to talk about the 10k race day strategy that will help you nail your goals, first we’re going to talk about some of the mental things you…

Polar vs FitBit Watches for Workouts

If you’ve been wondering about which watch is going to serve you best in running, the Polar Vs FitBit breakdown might be exactly what you need. FitBit is often the…

How Many Miles Is a 5K, 10K, 25K, Half Marathon, Marathon or Ultramarathon?

Whether you’ve just started running or you’re looking for a new challenge, you might be wondering just how far certain races really are and what’s a good time. Let’s put…

45 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…

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…

9 Key Glute Stretches + Strength Moves To Prevent Pain

Your glutes are one of the largest and most active muscles used in running. So it’s frustrating when they’re sore or tight, especially because that tightness if often due to…

Best Meniscus Tear Exercises to Improve Knee Range of Motion

Knee exercises aren’t just necessary after injury, but to keep you from injury! Intense exercises, such as running, can tear the meniscus which is a layer of cartilage in our…

Why Are Potatoes Good For Runners (and how to incorporate more)

For some of you, I’m about to blow your mind with all the ways that potatoes are good for runners…and I don’t just mean during dinner. I mean right smack…

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.

How to Quit Sugar in 11 Steps (Without Feeling Miserable)

Are you struggling with being able to quit sugar? Trust me, you’re not alone. Many people find it challenging to reduce or eliminate their sugar intake, but it’s an important…

Guide to Running Stairs: Why and How Runners Should Try It

Want to build strength and speed? Time to include running stairs! Find out why running stairs is worth the effort and how to do them.

27 Tips for Good Running Photos

Remember the handsome face that took over social media with the buzz “ridiculously photogenic guy” in 2014, after he managed to take one of the best race photos ever? It…