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

Best Running Underwear for Women and Men

What makes a good pair of running underwear? A running coach shares what to look for and the best options for running underwear for women and men

How to Support a Friend to Start Exercising

How to support someone ready to start exercising without freaking them out, overwhelming them or undermining their good intentions!

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis Recovery Plan

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis or inside ankle pain while running is a serious issue. Use this guide to stop pain and exercises to recover.

New Balance Balos Review | We Can Roll With This

Read our review to learn about New Balance Balos fit and feel compared to other NB models like 1080 and what to expect.

7 Lessons to Crush Your Next Running Goal

Running goals are so much more than setting smart measurable things, it's about the tactics you implement after that to bring them to life!

Brooks Ghost Max 2 Review | Left Us Wanting More

Our Brooks Ghost Max 2 review sheds light on who will enjoy this shoe, the drawbacks and how it compares to the favorite traditional Ghost.

Half Marathon Fueling Strategy: Why and How You Need to Fuel

Do I need to fuel during a half marathon? Can you get by without gels? Half marathon nutrition to feel energized and avoid stomach issues.

Altra Olympus 6 Review | Cushion with Grip

Looking for some cushioned trail shoes for a long run or big hike? Find out what our testers think of the updated Altra Olympus 6!

The 20 Best Trail Running Routes in Southern California

Running with Tendonitis: Guided by an Expert Physical Therapist

Running with tendonitis, achilles, patellar or any other requires a better understand of what's happening and knowing rest alone won't fix it.

Brooks Hyperion 2 Review | Lightweight Firmer Speed Shoe

Looking for a lightweight speed shoe without a carbon plate? Checkout our review of the Brooks Hyperion 2 for your next workout.

Adductors vs. Abductors in Running and Strength Training

Unless you’ve dealt with an injury in your upper leg or you’re spending more time in the gym strength training you might not have used these terms much. Which is…

New On Cloudsurfer Review | A Fabulous Update

A deep dive in to the changes in the new Cloudsurfer from past versions. See improvements to this daily cushioned trainer.

12 Best Spring Marathons in the United States

Trying to find our next race? Checkout our list of the best spring marathons to get feedback from other runners, elevation gain and more.

Ab Workout At Home: 18 Best Exercises For Your Ab Routine

Are you a beginner looking to build a strong core, but not sure where to start? Then I’ve got the best ab workout for you to do right at home.…

Zone 5 Heart Rate Training | Stop Skipping It

Zone 5 cardio has some very specific uses and benefits. It's not just for sprinters, it can benefit most runners. Find out how to use it.

15 Best Running Podcasts: Roads to Trails

Need motivation to run that extra mile? I've put together a list of 27 best podcasts about running to inspire your next run in 2023.

Zone 1 Heart Rate Training | You Should be Doing It!

Zone 1 heart rate training often gets overlooked, but has some serious benefits for our health and hour endurance training!

How to Raise Metabolism Naturally: 10 Effective Methods

Are you trying to lose weight or boost your energy levels? Learning how to raise metabolism can make a big difference. Here are 11 effective methods.

Types of Running Shoes Explained: Choose the Right Shoe for Your Run

Finding the right type of running shoes involves understanding what the different types are, to begin with. Learn all that and how to know what's right for you.

Running in the Heat and Humidity | Tips from a Coach

Running in the heat is about more than mental toughness. Here are some preparations and key ways to get through hot weather runs.

Hoka Trail Running Shoes Review and Comparison

Looking at the key features and differences of the best HOKA trail running shoes. From the Speedgoat to the Challenger, find your fit.

Zone 3 Training: Avoiding the Grey Zone

The “grey zone” and Heart Rate Zone 3 are frequently used running terms, but what do they mean? How can you avoid the grey zone?

7 Best Women’s Running Shorts (Multitester Feedback)

Finding the best women's running shorts takes a lot of miles and lot of uncomfortable moments. 6 running coaches went to work to find them!

Saucony Hurricane 24 Review: Max Cushion Stability

Looking for a max cushion stability shoe? Find out why the Saucony Hurricane 24 might be a great fit for heavier runners and back of the pack.

Hoka Vs Nike | Comparing Models and Features

Is a maximal or traditional running shoe best for you? Checkout how HOKA vs Nike compare in different models, style and fit.

Garmin Forerunner 165 Review | Best Beginner Running Watch

Ready to find a watch for all the running data? A deep dive review into why we found Garmin 165 to be the best running watch for beginners.

12 Best Summer Running Shirts for Women and Men

Looking for the perfect running shirt for hot weather? We've rounded up the best lightweight and breathable summer running shirts!

How Far Should You Run Before a Marathon or Half Marathon?

Everything you need to know about your longest long run before the marathon and half marathon. How far, when and total time on feet.

Does EMS for Muscle Growth Really Work?

EMS for muscle growth almost sounds too good to be true. Less gym time, possibly less effort and yet progress? Is it that simple?

Best Foam Roller for Runners: Comparing the Top Options

From density to size to vibration, everything you need to know to buy the right foam roller for runners. A deep dive and recommendations.

Foam Rolling For Runners: Why and How? A Must Read

The most in-depth guide you'll find on foam rolling for runners. Make the most of your time and get the benefits!

5 Must Do Hip Stretches for Runners: Releasing Tight Hips

Hip stretches for runners are designed to improve your range of motion, power in your stride and reduce potential injuries. Do them today!

Polar OH1+ Review | Most Ideal HR Monitor

How does the Polar OH1+ armband heart rate monitor compare to a chest strap? Find out why this coach now recommends it more often.

Best Garmin Watch for Running | Key Feature Comparison

Comparing Garmin watches to help you pick the best model for your needs from the Forerunner to the Venu to the Fenix and beyond.

Protein Timing for Weight Loss and Muscle (Runners Listen Up!)

Does the timing protein for fat loss or muscle building really work? What you need to know about protein intake to optimize your results and reach your goals.

7 Barefoot Running Benefits (From a Skeptical Coach)

As a running coach, barefoot running is something I recommend in limited doses, but for every runner. There are some incredible benefits!

Mental Toughness For Runners: Mind Games to Keep Pushing

What percentage of running is mental? We often see memes that say it’s 90% mental, 10% physical. While I think that’s a bit high (ya gotta do the work!), it’s…

Allbirds vs HOKA: Running or Casual Wear

Allbirds vs hoka running shoes review of which is better for standing all day, which options are better for running. Find the right shoe for you.

QC Running Shoes: What You need to Know

What are qc running shoes? What you need to know about this misread label and the great shoe brand you're looking for whether walking or running

What Is Interval Running? Workouts and How to Start

Interval running workouts are a great way to improve your speed an endurance. Get some ideas here to get started.

Saucony Triumph 22 Review: Max Cushion for Long Runs

Are you looking for a max cushioned running shoe that still feels stable? The Saucony Triumph 22 review is in and it's definitely a changed shoe.