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

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.

Who is Emma Coburn? In-Depth Olympic Gold Medalist Profile

Emma Coburn is an American middle-distance runner who has stunned the world, particularly in the 3,000-meter steeplechase. Read in-depth runner profile here

Complete Guide to Cycling Knee Pain: Causes and Treatment

There are many reasons why you might be experiencing cycling knee pain, and there are just as many simple ways to prevent it. Learn it all here.

3 Full Body Workouts For Runners

Cross training to build strength and power in your running are key. A full body workout for runners you can do anywhere will get you started!

How to Taper for a Marathon: Everything You Need to Know

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.

6 Unexpected Marathon Travel Tips For Your Best Race

Use these marathon travel tips and tricks to combat some of the most common-stressors of air travel and reduce the risk of jeopardizing race performance

77 Funny Running Quotes: Don’t Take Training so Seriously

Listen it’s great to be focused on your running goals. Driven to show up for every tempo run, hit your track paces and oh yes work those hips…but running just…

Running Track: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

If you’re thinking about adding running track into your workout routine, here’s everything you need to know as a beginner running track. The track is not just for professional athletes or student…

Sea Level to Altitude: How it Impacts Running

The first question most runners in Denver ask is “How are you adjusting to the altitude?” If they’re lucky my non-totally adjusted lungs leave me enough air to say…it’s altitude…

Ice vs Heat: What’s the Most Effective for Injuries and Pain

Icing or heating injuries or painful joints can provide pain relief. But it’s important to understand when to use which type of ‘thermal therapy’. More data now exists to say…

Why I Stopped Foam Rolling My IT Band

Rolling is a great tool for runners to prevent injuries, but you have to stop foam rolling IT Band pain! Physical Therapists share why and tips

Bloated After Running: 6 Proven Ways To Eliminate It

Bloating can occur for various reasons and it may be difficult to pinpoint the cause. Learn six strategies that can help reduce the unpleasant feeling of bloating after running.

21 High Protein Desserts: Plant Based, Paleo, Options for All

Trying to keep your protein up? Then here are 22 incredible clean eating, healthy high protein desserts that will not only help you meet your protein goals but also satisfy…

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!