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

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.

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…

Running Insoles: Should You Use Them? Orthotics? What’s Best?

Are running insoles necessary? Which are best and what to look out for when buying them or running orthotics? Everything you need to know!

Does Running Tone Your Legs? 5 Keys to Get That Toned Look

Does running tone your legs? There are many benefits to running, including shapely legs. Learn how running tones legs and what you can do to improve that toned look. Running…

17 High-Protein Post Workout Smoothies (Maximize Recovery)

Post workout smoothies aren’t just a quick way to refuel, they help to repair muscle damage and promote muscle growth when you include a good dose of protein. It turns…

5 Quick Knee Strengthening Exercises for Pain and Recovery

Crack. Pop. UGH. The sounds that haunt you as you drag yourself off the floor from foam rolling. What the heck is going on with your knees?! Good news, all…

Running Hamstring Pain: Causes, Treatment and Prevention Plan

Runners are highly susceptible to hamstring pain and injury. This complete guide includes everything you need to prevent, treat and recover.

How to Stretch After Running: 7 Best Post-Run Stretches

Incorporating running stretches into your routine post-run is great for recovery! Here's a complete guide to the best post-run stretches.

Rowing vs Running: Which Workout is Better?

Rowing vs running: both exercises burn calories and build muscle, but is one better than the other? Find out the benefits and drawbacks of each one to see which one…

Running Drills for Speed | How to Run Faster

Want to run faster, but not sure how? Running drills and tips approach by a certified running coach that will work for you.

The Best Glute Activation Exercises to Maximize Your Runs

Are you suffering from tight hip flexors or lower back pain while running or right after a lower body workout? Do you struggle to feel your glutes ‘turn on’ while…

Running While Pregnant: Myths (w/ Research), Tips, & the Facts

All pregnant women need exercise, but it's tough to know the best exercises for you. Learn the myths, risks, tips for running while pregnant

Why Do My Ears Hurt After Running? 9 Causes + Solutions

Have you ever had ear pain after going for a run? Here are some common causes of why your ears hurt after running and how to prevent them.

Can Yoga Replace Strength Training? Which Makes You Run Better?

Can yoga replace strength training? Yoga or weights? Weights or yoga? Which will make you a better runner? Are you better doing one than the other? Will one result in…

Running With Your Dog: 7 Must Do’s and a Few Don’ts

The longer I run, the more I realize there’s just more to learn about running. One of the areas, I have long been curious about is running with your dog.…

Marathon Taper Pains: Real or Phantom? Runner’s Flu?

The  number of freaked out, hair pulling, the world is ending “it’s race week and I have pain in my x” or “I’m suddenly sick with the runner’s flu” emails…

8 Exercises and Tips for Running With Flat Feet

One of the things that leads to injury for many runners is overpronation, which is when the arch falls in causing the ankle to roll in as well and sending…

How to Get Rid of Shin Splints: Treat and Fully Recover

Looking for the ultimate guide on how to get rid of shin splints? Don’t worry, I’ve got everything you need in this article. In part one, we covered the best…

Hill Sprints | Best Speed Workout for Strength and Injury Prevention

After you’ve been running for awhile, it’s natural to have a desire to get faster. The problem is most runners dive right in to speed workouts and often end up…

Dating a Runner 10 Undeniable Reasons It’s Amazing

We all know I love running, so what kind of Valentine’s Day post would that be! No, no, I want to talk about why life is so much better for…

Optimize Race Performance with Treadmill Running

Would you like to PR at your next race? Would you be surprised to find out the treadmill might be the tool you’re overlooking to achieve that goal? The benefits…

10 Most Effective Long Run Tips (A Coach’s Checklist)

Preparing for a long run is a key part of training. It's more than just showing up in the morning, it's having your nutrition and gear ready.

5 IT Band Stretches for Runners Based on Yoga

If there’s one injury that plagues running friends more than any other it’s the IT Band. I’ve talked here about the specific things I do to keep mine happy since…

Can You Use AirPods for Running? What runners Need to Know

Every runner is on the hunt for the perfect set of headphones. From wireless earbuds to bone conduction headphones, weather-resistant to comfort, there’s plenty to consider before investing in a…

Recovery Runs | Benefits and a Simple Guide to Going Easy Enough

Recovery runs are the best way to lower your risk of injury and burnout. Here's how to do it safely and effectively.

Runner’s Diarrhea (Trots): 15 Tips to Treat and Prevent It

Runner's diarrhea can be a real nuisance if you're a runner, but there are ways you can not only treat it but also prevent it from happening.

Garmin Enduro Review | Comparing to Fenix, Coros and Others

The Garmin Enduro stands out from others with solar charging, but the bigger question is how does it compare to the Fenix and other watches.

7 Best Electrolyte Tablets (Easy To Use Hydration)

There are an almost endless number of electrolyte tablets and hydration options. Here’s why these seven, recommended by a coach, are best.

Running with Asthma: 15 Must-Follow Rules for Staying Safe

Running is excellent exercise. For people with asthma, it's even more beneficial. But there are 7 rules you need to run asthma attack-free.

How to Train for a Marathon With A Busy Life

How to train for a marathon when your life is already filled with other things that must be done…it’s a super common question when we start out. Because we all…

12 Clever Healthy Hotel Room Hacks

I. Travel. A lot. In fact, we were living in a hotel room for 4 weeks when I first wrote this, which could explain the bizarre periods I used in…

Honest Daily Harvest Review: Is It Worth It for Runners?

An inside review of Daily Harvest menu, taste, price, sustainability and more. Decide healthy prepared meals are worth it for your nutrition.