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

Postpartum Running Plan | 9 Keys to Return Safely

Running after pregnancy is a big goal for many. You’re ready to get back to the runs you enjoyed before or simply ready to move your body again! And as…

Yoga for Runners| Benefits + Top 5 Poses for Runners

As runners, yoga isn’t the first thing that pops into our minds when we consider all the different options out there. But a regular yoga practice can not only stretch…

Squashing 8 Deceptive Running Myths

Running myths might just be hindering your performance or keeping some folks who truly need our sport from starting. Let's debunk them!

7 Best Treadmill Workouts (Adaptable For Your Fitness)

These 7 treadmill workouts will keep it fun while giving you an incredible workout. Easy to follow and perfect for all levels of runners.

Nike Wildhorse 7 Shoe Review: Comparing Trail Running Shoes

This post sponsored by Nike, all content and opinions expressed here are my own. Who knew my first run in the Nike Wildhorse in May would involve snow falling from…

10 Best Running Instagram Accounts to Follow ASAP

These Top Instagram Runners help us build running the community through support, fun, tips and friendship. Checkout why I follow them!

Bayshore Marathon Review: Course, Crowds, Key Details

Are you looking for a flat fast course? People that are the nicest? Post race food that rocks? A fun race vacation? Great, let me give you the full low…

Nike Air Zoom Terra Kiger 8 Review

This post sponsored by Nike, all content and opinions expressed here are my own. Who’s ready to hit the trails this summer? Me! So I’m stoked to be lacing up…

Why Runners Need a Chiropractor and Why I Used to Avoid Them

A sports chiropractor can help much more than back pain. They help with muscle imbalances from IT band to hip adjustments for pain free running.

Tired, Stressed and Sick is NOT Normal

We’ve shifted to a culture that seems to idolize being busy. You know what I”m talking about…many conversations are some variation of sharing our to do list: “Whew, I’m so…

21 Homemade Energy Bite Recipes For Running Fuel

During my stay at Wellfit Malibu, I probably heard the words “energy ball” every 10 minutes thanks to the hilarious Lee and Davida who were indeed starving on the low…

Pre-Workout for Running| What’s Best? Pro’s And Con’s

Have you ever wondered if you should use coffee, green tea or another pre-workout supplement for running to take your energy level from zero to hero? Ok you might not…

Active Stretching: What Is It and Why Runners Should Do It

Active stretching is about more than increased flexibility. Learn why it's different from other stretches and how to add it to your routine.

5 Essential Oils to Improve Athletic Performance

These are the best essential oils for athletic performance! Find out why peppermint oil and others work without side effects.

Aqua Jogging: Pool Running Workouts And Benefits

Aqua jogging is an excellent form of cross-training for runners. Here are benefits, gear you'll need, and sample workouts for training.

Best Virtual Races with Medals and 15 Reasons to Try One

Here are the best virtual races and why you need to start including them in your training. It's medals, motivation and so much more

Running Meditation: Benefits and How To Do It

Running can be meditative. In fact it can trigger the same brain waves as long-form meditation. Learn more here.

65 Running Facts Every Runner Should Know

Some days I think I know a ton about running and others someone posts a fact about a person winning a marathon by riding 11 miles in a car and…

13 Keys to Prevent Running Injuries

Running injuries can be caused by a lot of things, but often a few simple changes can help prevent injuries. Here are 13 ways to prevent them.

ASICS Vs Mizuno Running Shoes

Ever wonder what sets the big brands apart? Today we compare ASICS vs Mizuno to help you find the right running shoe

Join a Running Group: Tips to Eliminate Fears and Find a Club

Maybe you’ve been pondering a running group for awhile. But something is holding you back.. I won’t know anyone. I’ll be the slowest person there. They might be zombies. All…

BCAAs for Runners: 6 Benefits of Essential Amino Acids vs Protein Powder

BCAAs for runners vs essential amino acids vs protein powder to optimize training and muscle building. Benefits and drawbacks of supplementing.

Complete Running HIIT Workout Guide (with 7 Workouts)

High-intensity interval training is a great way to maximize your workout time. Learn why and how, as well as the benefits of HIIT running.

10 Women Only Half Marathons and Women’s Races

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to run surrounded by thousands of women? I’m sure most of you guys have, but ladies it’s an amazing experience and…

Runner’s Anemia: What It Is and How to Diagnose and Treat It

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.

You Know You’re A Runner When: 26.2 Signs

How do you know if someone is a runner? I’m surprised you have to ask because our non-stop chatter about it is usually quick giveaway! We’ve beat the dead horse…

What Is Active Recovery? And How To Add It To Your Routine?

Active recovery is different from resting. Learn exactly what active recovery is and different ways to add it to your routine.

39 Anti-inflammatory Recipes to Improve Recovery

Maximizing your nutrition with anti-inflammatory recipes - that means plant based recipes like these ideas for breakfast,dinner and dessert!

Runner’s Diet: The Complete Guide to Eating for Endurance

A runner's diet is not just about feeling good, but also about running your best. Here's a full guide on everything you need to know about runner's diet.

Herbs for Muscle Recovery, Growth and Strength

A few years ago, I was introduced to the idea of turmeric as an anti-inflammatory. It wasn’t my first dabbling with a supplement (hello protein powders, greens powder, essential oils),…

What Causes Muscle Cramps for Runners + How to Prevent Them

Muscle cramps are common for runners, but not necessary. Learn what causes muscle cramps while running, and the 7 things you can do to prevent them.”

Magnesium For Athletes: Improve Body Composition, Performance, Stress

Magnesium for athletes is crucial for energy, fat loss and muscle recovery. How much you need, foods high in magnesium and top supplements.

What to Say to Someone Running a Marathon (and Support Training!)

Thank you for even asking what to say to a runner before a race or how to cheer on a marathon runner. Genuinely we couldn’t do all the miles without…

97 High Protein Breakfast Ideas – Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegan and Paleo Options

High-protein breakfast ideas slow your hunger! Egg-based, vegan, paleo or even on-the-go breakfasts, you'll find all kinds of ideas here.

Are Men Faster Than Women? Gender Difference in Running

Why are men faster than women at some distances and how does physiology vs physiology play a role in our results? Understanding the differences

Beginner Speed Workouts And Tips to Get Started Safely

Day one you’re just focused on making it around the block without dying and then weeks pass, months pass and you start to wonder if you need to do more…

Vegan Runner Diet: 11 Secrets to go Plant Based

Maybe you’ve considered trying a vegan runner diet (aka plant based running) based on a friends experience or some of the great new info. Or simply because you made it…

Running Downhill: Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to downhill running it’s truly much harder on the body than most runners anticipate and there are some form tricks that you need to know. These are…

How Long Does Marathon Training Take?

Have you ever wondered when to start training for a marathon? Do you need 16 weeks, 24 weeks, a year? You will in no way be surprised to hear that…

How to Fix Tight Calves While Running

Learn about the most common causes of tight calves after running, plus calf stretches and calf strengthening exercises to prevent it.

Does Running Give You Abs? A Complete Guide for All Runners

Does running give you abs? Find out how running affects your abs and how you can use it to meet your goals to get a stronger core.

How Do You Get Over a Bad Run Day?

Digging in and doubling down on bad runs could be one of the best ways to have your best race. Let's talk mental training for running days that go wrong.