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

12 Top Audiobooks for Running

Do you run with music? Are you tired of the same 5 songs on the radio? I was. That’s why I started listening to audiobooks while training for the San…

US Warm Winter Vacation Idea: Del Mar, California

Warm vacation spots in January? Best US warm winter vacation? As the arctic blast settled in and I looked out at the once again icy roads, I found myself on…

Is Running Bad for You? An Honest Discussion on Running

We’ve all heard of the benefits of running, but then we also hear the skeptics talk about the risks. But is running bad for you? Or is that a misconception?…

9 Reasons Why You’re Working Out But Gaining Weight

You've sweated, refueled, rested and yet the scale still goes up? Learn why you're gaining weight when working out instead of losing.

Does Muscle Weigh More Than Fat? Here’s the Real Answer

Does muscle weigh more than fat? Or is it the other way around? This has probably popped up in your mind at some point. Here's the real answer to this…

Complete Splendid Spoon Review: Is it Worth It?

Splendid Spoon is a popular plant-based meal delivery service that I’ve tested out to write this review and share with you exactly what makes it unique. They’re a great way…

9 Best Hip Alignment Exercises You Can Do At Home

Are you dealing with hip pain and believe you have misaligned hips? Then read this guide to learn the 9 best hip alignment exercises you can do at home easily.

How to Relieve Knee Pain: 10 Top Methods to Relieve Knee Pain

Knee pain affects so many injured runners. Here are the top 8 methods to help relieve knee pain effectively that you may not know about.

10 Running Goals That Go Beyond the Clock

How do you stay motivated without races to train? You shift your focus away from PR’s being the only thing that gets you out the door! It’s time for running…

How to Make Exercise a Habit: Top 13 Tips for Lasting Change

Use these 13 tips and tricks to learn how to make exercise a habit in a way that actually lasts. These mental hacks are designed to set you up for…

One Word Resolution | A New Way to Set Goals

While I am not a fan of resolutions, I am a believer in always trying to improve, and the idea of picking a one word resolution to help me focus…

Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 Review

If you love a good cushion and enjoy a max trainer, then this Saucony Endorphin Shift 3 review is going to make you very happy. Just like it made my…

Easy Mexican Meatloaf: Healthy Recipe for Runners + Athletes

This Mexican Meatloaf recipe is a double twist on the classic meatloaf, combining Mexican flavors with a healthy take for a perfect and easy dinner meal!

Upper Body Workout For Runners: 11 Key Exercises

Does upper body strength help runners? Yes! This article shares exactly why and teaches you 11 upper body workout moves that actually work!

What Muscles Does Running Work? 7 Key Groups

Ever wonder what muscles does running work exactly? Then this complete guide is perfect for you. We'll learn about the 7 muscle groups that work when you run.

Apple Ultra Watch Review | Is it Good for Running?

How does the Apple Ultra Watch perform when put to the test? We'll cover whats different from previous models and is it good for runners.

Pilates for Runners: Why Do It and 7 Exercises to Try Today

Pilates for runners can be an incredible way to strengthen your core and hip stabilizers for injury-free runs! It uses small and controlled movements to target the core while simultaneously…

Why You Need Different Running Shoes Vs Walking Shoes

Running and walking seem like such similar activities that it’s easy to assume all you need is one pair of sneakers, right? But running vs walking shoes is about more…

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…

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…

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…

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!