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 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.

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.

Best Sunscreen for Runners + How to Pick the Right One

Here's a complete guide to the best sunscreens for runners, along with what you need to look for when picking a sunscreen as a runner.

Acid Reflux and Running: What’s Going On and How to Prevent It

Acid reflux and running (or heartburn while running) is an unpleasant experience, let's talk about how to avoid it in the future!

Racing And Running on Your Period: What You Need to Know

Ever wondered just how running with your period impacts workouts? Can you race well on your period? What you need to know about your cycle

Nike Pegasus 41 Review: A Classic That Maintains

Have you tried one of the longest running daily trainers? The Nike Pegasus 41 review is in and I think even more runners will love it.

33 International Travel Tips for Your First Time Abroad

If you’re getting ready to travel abroad, then these international travel tips are going to definitely come in handy! Not only have I traveled a ton, but I worked for a…

Cross Training Machines For Runners (Compared to Running)

Cross training machines for runners are key to a well-rounded workout routine. They not only help in building endurance but also work out various muscle groups that are often overlooked…

What is a Tempo Run? Finding the Right Pace and Workout Ideas

Tempo runs give runners an edge by building endurance and speed. Here we'll dive into your tempo pace and how to do the workouts.

Saucony vs Brooks: Which Running Shoes Are Better for Your Feet?

Two giants of the running shoe industry, find out how their shoes compare and which is right for your running. Brooks vs Saucony models

On Cloudmonster Hyper Review vs Cloudmonster

Read our review to learn about On Cloudmonster Hyper fit and feel compared to the Cloundmonster Original and version 2.

10 Best Wide Toe Box Running Shoes

Wide toe box running shoes offer extra room for toes to avoid rubbing, blisters, and other foot problems. These 10 meet your different needs!

How to Increase Running Cadence

What is your running cadence? How does it affect the way you run? What's a good running cadence goal? We answer all of that and more here!

Parkrun Records Eliminated – Inclusive or Short Sighted?

Why the well known Park Run records shall be no more. They've eliminated time tracking and the choice is divisive.

Should You Run with a Hangover?

Can going for a run with a hangover help you feel better? Looking into the data on sweating it out as a cure.

Runners High Explained + How to Trigger It!

Learn about the science behind this phenomenon of euphoria known as the runner's high. And tips for achieving it more often during your runs.

7 Awesome Benefits of Long Distance Running

Doing more than a short run or walk has tremendous impacts on physical and mental health. Benefits of running long are backed by studies

Running with Sciatica: Should You or Shouldn’t You?

Running with sciatica, what an exercise physiologist wants you to know. Plus how to know if it's piriformis syndrome or sciatic pain.

Running Hydration Guide + Marathon Hydration Vest Options

Everything you need to know about running hydration and how to plan for race day, including options for a marathon hydration vest.

Should Smoking Runner Be Disqualified?

Running a 3:33 marathon is impressive, is it more impressive while smoking? Should he have been disqualified and banned?

Courtney Dauwalter Wins Mount Fuji 100

What propels Dauwalter to these epic finishes is? It is her lack of formal training plan? The off the wall diet?

Hoka Skyward X Review | The Everyday Runner’s Carbon Shoe

Ready for the ultimate cushioned carbon plate shoe? The race shoe designed for the middle and back of the pack? Hoka Skyward X review is in.

How to Start Running in the Morning + 7 Benefits to Morning Workouts

Tips to start a morning run habit that you may not actually hate. Know the benefits of a morning run that you'll reap all day long.

Why Heel Striking Isn’t Bad and Forefoot Running Isn’t Perfect

A running coach busts myths around running foot strike and what you really need to know to prevent injuries. Forefoot running is just one piece

Protein For Runners: Why You Need More And How To Get It

Learn how much protein runners need to support your activity and promote muscle repair and growth. It's as important as carbohydrates.

Emma Bates Cracks Beer at Boston Finish Line

Was is it a good day or a bad day at the office for this American runner? What's behind this iconic moment?

Birthday Ideas for Adults in Denver

Anyone can throw a party, what I want are experiences! Memories, laughs and moments with the people who mean the most and a birthday is the perfect excuse to get…

Do Your Feet Go Numb When Running? 10 Solutions!

Ever have pins and needles in feet when running?? Or your foot goes numb when running? Here's what's going on!

On Cloudsurfer Trail Review | A Great Road to Trail Option

The On Cloudsurfer Trail shoe is a feel good shoe, but not ideal for highly technical runs. Let's explore the features and fit!

Running with Arthritis: Tips from Actual Runners (including Rheumatoid)

Running with arthritis is entirely possible. Guiding your through smarter training choices from joint stability to mobility work

Running After Knee Replacement Surgery

A true story of how a runner dealt with running after knee replacement surgery and what you need to know whether partial or full surgery.

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!