RunToTheFinish

Online Running Coach | Running Shoe and Gear Reviews

About the Author

Stacey Gross

Running Coach, Author, and Shoe Tester

Stacey has been a part of the Run To The Finish coaching team since 2021. She is a marathon runner and duathlete, having crossed many finish lines finding her sweet spot to be in the shorter distances. She loves testing gear and providing feedback for the middle and back of the pack runners! She embraces a good treadmill run, alongside her road running with her four-legged training partner Luna, and since recently moving to Colorado, is a newbie trail runner learning the ropes providing great feedback in each area. When she's not running, coaching or writing, you'll find her sipping on a cup of iced coffee....no matter what the weather is outside. Follow Stacey on Instagram

Stacey Gross

Best Rowing Machines for Home | Runner-Tested for Every Budget

Get a full-body, low-impact workout at home. Our guide to the best rowing machines for every budget and space.

Tokyo Marathon Guide and Training Tips

Running the Tokyo Marathon? Here's tips on training, race day logistics, course strategy and what to expect race weekend.

Best Adjustable Dumbbells | We Tested Them to Find What’s Actually Worth Buying

We tested the best adjustable dumbbells for home workouts, comparing weight range, comfort, adjustment speed, durability and value to find the top picks.

Garmin Forerunner 70 Review: The Best Running Watch for Beginners Just Got a Major Upgrade

The Garmin Forerunner 70 is here and it's built to take you from first steps to finish line. We break down everything you need to know before you lace up…

Brooks Ghost 18 vs Hoka Clifton 11 | Which Daily Trainer is Right For You?

Torn between the Brooks Ghost 18 and Hoka Clifton 11? See how they stack up on cushioning, ride and fit to find your next daily trainer.

Best Winter Running Gear: We Tested 100+ Items in All the Weather

Discover the best winter running gear for cold-weather training, from budget-friendly to items worth the splurge. We put it to the test to find the best.

Running Shoe Brands List: 14 Brands and What Each Is Best For

Compare the top running shoe brands, what each is known for, who they’re best for and the most popular models from Brooks, Hoka, ASICS, Nike and more.

How to Train and Race on a Budget (Because Running Isn’t Cheap!)

Racing doesn't have to be expensive. Discover smart, budget-friendly ways to train, gear up, and enter races without breaking the bank.

Our Most Recommended Running Gear | The Pieces Our Team Keeps Reaching For

Discover our top-recommended gear, tested and reviewed by our team. Find honest picks for quality, performance, and value before you buy

Topo Specter Elite Review: A Fast, Roomy Alternative to Narrow Super Shoes

New to Topo's lineup, the Specter Elite is quickly becoming a favorite among runners. Our full review breaks down what makes it a winner.

Breathing Trainers for Runners: Do They Actually Improve Performance?

Do resistance breathing devices really improve running performance? We look at what they are and if they're helpful for runners.

What We Tested in August (and What We’d Actually Buy)

Looking for new running gear? Here's our August roundup of recently tested products, from rain jackets and headphones to running accessories and recovery tools.

How Long Does It Take to Walk 5 Miles at Different Paces? And What’s Average?

Wondering how long it takes to walk 5 miles? Learn the average walking time based on pace, plus the factors that can speed you up or slow you down.

Heat Acclimation Training for Runners | Understanding the Tactics and Science

Running in the heat doesn’t have to feel miserable. With the right heat acclimation plan, your body can adapt surprisingly quickly, making summer training safer and more productive. You haven’t…

5 Best Running Bags for Commuting and Training

Looking for the best running bag? We tested gym bags, commuter backpacks, and gear bags to find the best options for carrying running essentials to work, the gym, and race…

Brooks Made the Ghost Max 4 Even Better for Everyday Comfort

We put the Brooks Ghost Max 4 to the test. Here's what we found about its cushioning, fit, stability, and who this shoe is and isn't built for.

Topo Specter 3 Review: A More Versatile Super Trainer with a Wide Toebox

Thinking about the Topo Specter 3? Here's our honest take on the fit, the new RevFoam midsole, and whether this super trainer actually lives up to the hype.

Sweat, Sodium and Runners: What The Research Really Says

Confused about sodium and electrolytes? Learn how much sodium runners actually need, when a sweat test is worth it, and how to spot the signs of too much or too…

Packing for a Vacation or Destination Race? Here’s the Gear that Deserves Space in Your Bag

Everything a runner actually needs for a destination race, packed into one bag. Carry-on, recovery, and apparel picks that work double duty.

Gut Training for Runners: How to Train Your Stomach for Marathon Fueling

Our complete gut training guide explains how marathon and half marathon runners can increase carbohydrate intake, improve fueling, and prevent stomach distress.

Our Favorite Running Gear Finds for July

Discover the best summer running gear for July, breathable shorts, a versatile gear bag, sweat-proof headphones, and refreshing electrolytes to keep you cool and hydrated through the hottest training miles.

Your Complete Guide to Running Fuel, Without the Overwhelm

Stop bonking. Learn exactly how many carbs per hour you need on the run and the best gels, drinks, and foods to hit your target.

Athletes Have Been Using Palm Cooling for Years. Is It Finally Worth Trying?

Therabody CryoTherm Palm review: does its palm cooling tech actually lower core temperature and aid recovery? We put it to the test.

We Put the Waterfly Running Belt 3.0 on Two Very Different Testers and Got Two Very Different Results

We put the Waterfly Belt's multiple storage pockets, water bottle fit, and comfort to the test to see if it's worth adding to your running gear.

The Best Daily Trainers After Hundreds of Test Miles

Our experts tested the best daily trainers from Brooks, HOKA, ASICS, Nike, Saucony, New Balance, and more to find the top picks for everyday miles.

Summer Training Giveaway

Summer miles are better with the right gear. That’s why I’ve teamed up with Dr. Lisa Mitro and RD Cortney Berling to give one lucky runner a package of tools…

The Truth About Waking Up Your Glutes | What Runners Get Wrong About Glute Activation From a PT

Runners hear a lot about their glutes. Whether it’s injury prevention, running form, or getting stronger, it seems like every conversation eventually comes back to glute activation. But what does…

Is the Puma Deviate Pure Nitro the Best Value Daily Trainer of the Year?

The Puma Deviate Pure Nitro is a featherlight, plate-free daily trainer that handles easy miles and tempo runs alike all for $150. The smooth, cushioned ride won't wow you with…

Fast Runners Will Love the Mizuno Neo Vista 3. Everyone Else Might Want to Keep Looking

The Mizuno Neo Vista 3 is a notable step up in this super trainer line, delivering serious stability and durability for faster runners tackling long miles. Our team had mixed…

Cool Gear for Hot Miles, Our June Gear Round Up

Our monthly gear roundup goes summer-ready with a fresh set of running picks worth knowing about.

How to Carry Energy Gels While Running: The Best Options for Every Race Distance

Pockets, belts, and vests. There's no one-size-fits-all way to carry gels on race day. Find the setup that works for you, your race, and your fueling plan.

Are You Getting Enough Carbs on Long Runs? How Liquid Nutrition Changes Everything

What if one bottle could handle your carbs, electrolytes, and hydration all at once? Here is how high carb drinks are changing the way endurance runners fuel long runs and…

All Swift Active 5k Review | Can a $80 Running Shoe Actually Compete With the Big Names

Great price, basic design, the All Swift Active 5K reviewed. Find out if this budget runner earns a spot in your rotation.

Win A Free Custom Running Plan + Crossrope | Jump Rope for Runners?

Win a Free 1-on-1 Run Coaching Call + Personalized Running Plan to Compliment Your CrossRope Training Want a little expert guidance with a smart dose of cross-training built in? We’re…

The Neuroscience of Pain: Why Your Brain Creates Pain and What Runners Can Do About It

Is your pain a threat signal or tissue damage? Taylor Kruse breaks down the neuroscience of pain, stress and how it impacts training for runners.

Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 Review: Ready to Hit Race Day PRs

Our Saucony Endorphin Elite 3 review: incredibly soft, surprisingly stable, and built to race. Here's everything you need to know before you buy.

15 Running Gifts for Dad – Celebrating Him All Year

Looking to support Dad in his sweaty pursuits? These are some great running gifts for Father's Day, birthdays or just because.

No More Sore Feet: The Best Shoes for Nurses Tested for Shift-long Comfort

Discover the best shoes for nurses in 2026, tested for all-day comfort, slip resistance, and support.

How Many Steps Are in a Marathon and Why That Number Is Different for Every Runner

We did the marathon step math for you including a breakdown chart by height and stride length so you can find your actual number.

Best Adidas Running Shoes | We’ve Tested the Lineup So You Don’t Have to Guess

Discover the best Adidas running shoes available right now, from the ultra-responsive Adizero to the cushioned Ultraboost. Find your perfect pair based on speed, comfort, and terrain.

Best Super Trainers Explained: Who Actually Needs One and Which Ones Are Worth the Price

Not quite a race shoe, way more fun than a basic trainer, super trainers are the upgrade your long runs have been begging for. We tested the best so you…

New This May: Shorts With Pockets, Running Fuel Worth Trying, and Swimsuits That Keep Up

Our May gear roundup covers the running shorts, fuel flavors, and swimsuits we put through real workouts so you know exactly what is worth adding to your rotation.