Amanda Brooks's Blog
September 7, 2025
Best Barefoot Shoes For Stronger Feet and Better Balance
We’re not big fans of running in barefoot shoes, but for lifting? Sign us up! We’ve rounded up the best barefoot shoes from running to lifting based on our testers feedback.
All these new max cushioned running shoes are actually going to work against you in the gym.
They’re built to help propel you forward, layered with foam underfoot to soak up the impact mile after mile, and sometimes shaped with a rocker to help with that heel-to-toe transition. Perfect for running, but definitely not for lift...
September 6, 2025
Hoka Mach X3 Review | Finally Worth the Hype
Not to sound like a broken record from the last Mach X, but here we are again with a shoe that’s totally different. The Hoka Mach X3 has gone through another round of changes, so is this the one that finally hits that sweet spot? We sure hope so.
I’ve always been a fan of the Hoka Mach and Mach X lineup. Unlike some of the classic Hokas that can feel a bit bulky, to me, the Machs have always struck a good balance. They’re light enough to pick up the pace, but versatile enough to handle those easi...
2026 Lululemon Seawheeze Race and Travel Planning Tips
2026 means the return of Lululemon’s incredible Seawheeze half marathon. Which means we had to dig out our photos and tips to help you have the best weekend ever.
Seawheeze is a coveted lottery and holy smokes it took me like 4 years to get in the first time around, so I feel like with the increase in participation it will be super hard now. I had an idea that this was a different experience, but not so much that I bothered to do much investigation or pre-planning on what to expect.
Even as a ve...
September 5, 2025
New Balance FuelCell SuperComp Elite v5 Review | A Leaner, Meaner, Marathon Racer
The New Balance SuperComp Elite v5 is a solid update that strikes the difficult blend of speed and comfort, but features stark changes that could prove a bit divisive.
New Balance loves to make a splash with each version of the SuperComp Elite, and this release is no different!
The SCE v5 (because seriously, can the name be any longer?) is lighter, leaner, and considerably faster than previous versions. The shoe features the FuelCell foam that New Balance fans have come to love, a stiffer carb...
Best Garmin Watch for Running | Key Feature Comparison
As a running enthusiast and gear geek, there’s nothing quite like checking all the data on your GPS watch post run. And when it comes to GPS watches, the best Garmin watch for runners is a super fun topic. I’ve put them all to the test over many years and many runs to help provide you a comparison of models.
Garmin is a brand that needs no introduction. With their sleek designs, accurate tracking capabilities, and impressive data analysis features, Garmin watches have become the go-to choice f...
September 4, 2025
Nike Structure 26 Review | A Great Redesign, But Waiting on the Plus
The Nike Structure 26 is an updated stability running shoe, here’s our teams review of this update.
Originally released over 30 years ago, the Structure has been a staple for Nike as a stability shoe. It has evolved over the years thanks to innovations to design and cushioning technologies.
The 26 marks new stability solutions while creating a modern look and taking into account real runners testing feedback. It’s truly some big updates from the previous model which got very lackluster reviews.
...Nike Structure 26 Review | A Complete Redesign that Still Has Flaws
The Nike Structure 26 is an updated stability running shoe, here’s our teams review of this update.
Originally released over 30 years ago, the Structure has been a staple for Nike as a stability shoe. It has evolved over the years thanks to innovations to design and cushioning technologies.
The 26 marks new stability solutions while creating a modern look and taking into account real runners testing feedback. It’s truly some big updates from the previous model which got very lackluster reviews.
...September 3, 2025
Brooks Hyperion 3 Review | Gave Up Speed to Become a Better Daily Trainer
Our review of the more versatile Brooks Hyperion 3.
The Brooks Hyperion 3, a lightweight and versatile daily trainer, sits comfortably at the entrance to Brooks’ Hyperion performance line, which also includes the Hyperion Max 3 and Hyperion Elite 5.
While it lacks a premium midsole foam and a plate, it is still a versatile shoe that is easy on the wallet and can wear a few hats for any runner, from hobbyist to professional.
Since last year’s Hyperion 2, version 3 put on a few grams and added a f...
How to Align Your Hips: 9 Easy At-Home Exercises That Work
If you’re dealing with hip pain and other issues and suspect that you have misaligned hips, then this guide for hip alignment exercises is perfect for you! Or maybe you think you’ve tried everything , but the pain remains…time to look at it from a new angle.
Learning how to strengthen and align your hips can not only improve your posture, but can save you from many common running injuries such as runner’s knee, IT band syndrome, and piriformis syndrome.
The key here is STRENGTH.
My biggest desire...
Finally, a 10K Where Every Runner Actually Belongs – What Makes ATC Special
Welcome to Around the Crown 10k, an event that has been growing every year, but unlike the Majors doesn’t leave people feeling left out when registration maxes. In fact, they go out of their way to ensure people feel included.
Notice that the crown is actually the buildings skyline.When ATC reached to me, I admit I hadn’t heard much about this race. After all, I don’t live in Charlotte. BUT I am a huge fan of 10K races, they’ve been my sweet spot for a few years so I was immediately game to exp...
