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

What is a Shakeout Run? Should You Run Before a Race?

Long distance runners often undertake shakeout runs before major competitions. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of shakeout runs here.

Suunto vs Garmin: Which GPS Watch Is Better for You

When you're ready to shell out for a GPS running watch it's confusing to know what's best. Here we compare Suunto vs Garmin watches.

10 Amazon Running Products You Don’t Know About, But Should

We all know that I’m an uber saver. Not like the car, but like I’m seriously in to finding ways to maximize my dollars because that means more money for…

Coffee As A Pre-Workout Supplement: What Are The Reviews?

Coffee can be used to enhance exercise performance and endurance. Learn how to use coffee as a pre workout supplement here.

Does Walking Help Running? 9 Absolute Benefits!

As a running coach, I’m about to surprise a lot of you by saying you need to walk more! Believe that walking and being a runner aren’t compatible? Real runners…

How to Plan a Running Route + What Factors to Consider

Whether you’re new to running, or looking to change things up, knowing how to plan a running route is an incredibly important skill for every runner. It involves knowing what…

What is a Good 5K Time? Averages + Fastest 5K Times

In the 1970’s America suddenly had a new found urge to move, which lead to a revolution in jogging. Until that point most runners were extremely fast and focused on…

Half Marathon Training Plan for Beginners

Have you ever wondered when to start training for a half marathon? Do you need 16 weeks, 24 weeks, a year? Let’s look at the details of a half marathon…

Post Marathon Training: Running and Strength Training Plan

Will I lose fitness by taking weeks off after my marathon? When can you start running after a marathon? It’s a concern for nearly every runner I’ve encountered during post…

9 Signs of Overtraining + Recovery Beyond a Rest Day

A runner who feels tired, fatigued, or unmotivated is probably overtrained. Learn the signs of overtraining for runners and tips for recovery.

Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Review: Comparing Trail Running Shoes

In the last few months I’ve tested out a number of Nike Trail Running shoes and provided my thoughts on fit and feel. So today we’re switching it up a…

Fasted Running: Should You Run or Do Cardio While Fasting?

Why are more people trying fasted cardio for weight loss? What are the drawbacks to fasted running? What about glycogen depleted runs?

9 Causes and Solutions for Ankle Pain From Running

Have you ever experienced pain and tightness in your ankle after running? 7 Causes of this common issue, and great ways to prevent and treat it.

How to Balance CrossFit + Running (Plus 7 WODs for Runners!)

: Runners know they need to cross-train, but can CrossFit and running work well together? Learn 4 ways to balance it, plus 7 WODs for runners you can try today!

How to Breathe While Running: 5 Steps to Breathing Properly

Learn how to breathe properly while running using the right techniques with this 5 step guide tried and tested by a running coach.

Run Less, Run Faster Marathon Training Review

Run Less, Run Faster sounds great, but how does the training plan work? Can you run a marathon only running 3 days a week?

6 Best Hip Mobility Exercises and Why They Matter

Looking for the best hip mobility exercises? Here's how to do 6 top hip mobility drills to improve performance and protect against injuries.

How to Walk a Half Marathon + Training Plan

If you're thinking of walking a marathon, here's everything you need to know. Training tips, gear ideas, what to eat, and how long it'll take.

Nutrition For Runners | Maximize Your Training

Nutrition for runners is about eating right to fuel our runs. Here's a complete guide to everything you need to maximize your training.

9 Reasons Not to Run a Marathon…from a Running Coach

Should I run a marathon? It’s a good question to ask before jumping in to training. In some cases, the answer is no. You really shouldn’t make that goal RIGHT…

Running Blisters: 7 Ways to Prevent + Causes and Treatment

Running blisters are the most common injury runners experience. 7 easy prevention tips! Also, learn how to treat the ones you currently have.

7 Running After Stress Fracture Guidelines

Running after stress fracture is both a mental and physical recovery process. We've got those keys along with prevention of recurrence.

Hanson Marathon Method Overview and Real Experiences

As a running coach, I’m often asked about the best marathon training plan and of course there’s a LOT that goes in to that answer. One of the plans that…

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.

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!