Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 27

Complete Marathon Pace Chart: Every Split for Every Goal Time

Looking to snag a new PR or just trying to figure out what pace converts to what finishing time? We got a complete marathon pace chart in miles and KM pacing.  Translate your pace to your goal time or your goal time to the average pace you need to run.

The following charts includes your split times for 5K, 10k, Half and full races. You can also use this to guide your goal pace based on how you’ve done in past races.

Whether you’re trying to find a 6 hour marathon pace or a 3:51 marathon pace we’...

Altra Experience Wild 2 Review | Altra Curious Welcome Here

Are you intrigued by the idea of a foot shaped toe box? But not so much by the idea of a zero drop shoe? Altra has heard the feedback and created a few new 4mm heel drop shoes. The Wild 2 is the second iteration and we think an improvement on a good thing.

The Altra Experience Wild 2 is the second generation of a comfortable, versatile trail shoe that serves as a good transition for runners interested in a zero drop model without taking the full plunge. It’s comfortable and protective of your fe...

Most Comfortable Hoka Walking Shoes (from a Trainer)

Hoka has become a go to walking shoe for millions for a very good reason. In fact, we’ve tested every shoe in the line up and found that so many are perfect not just for running, but for walking. We break down the best Hoka walking shoes based upon your needs.

Whether you’re walking for a workout or taking a quick mid-day break, we’ve got a good option here.

Hoka has earned our walking shoe recommendation after over a decade of testing. We love that there’s a nice balance in stability and cushio...

11 Best Protein Powder for Runners | Whey vs Plant Based

With so many fueling and nutrition options out there, it’s easy to feel a little lost on what to try. If you’re looking for the best protein powder for runners, keep reading! We’ve done the testing to help narrow it down to the options that will hopefully not end with an upset stomach.

Using protein powder to enhance distance training is entirely a personal choice! It’s not a must or a requirement, no matter what anyone tells you.

For me and many of my athletes, it’s the most effective way to e...

10 Tips for How To Run Without Getting Tired

The quest to run without getting tired is a common challenge among runners of all levels. Whether we simply want to go farther without feeling out of shape or we want to try our hand at a new race distance…the challenges in running are never ending!

There’s no secret hack that makes every run feel effortless, but there are a few strategies that can help you build up your endurance.

Whether you’re just getting started and want to stop feeling wiped out after a mile, or you’re a more experienced ...

The Adidas Adizero Boston 13 Has One Major Flaw (And We Still Love It)

What are the first thoughts that come to mind when you hear the words “Boston Marathon”? I’m guessing a few responses could be history, unicorn, heartbreak, or peak performance. The aptly named Adidas Adizero Boston 13  dials in on the latter as a fast, fun, and responsive speedwork shoe.

The Boston line was first introduced in 2009 as a dynamic, lightweight shoe built for speed and execution.

Yes, I know we’re now in 2025, and that running shoes have vastly evolved in the past few years, but t...

New Balance Vs Brooks | Finding the Right Running Shoe

Comparing New Balance vs Brooks running shoes is another breakdown of proprietary technologies, fit, and feel.  Both brands are well loved and used because they make high quality running shoes for various running styles and foot types. Today we’ll compare models to help you find the best shoe for your workouts.

Both brands are known for their quality and offer a variety of models to suit different needs like overpronation, low arches, cushioning, and various styles of running.

I do admit to hav...

5 Best Hoka Walking Shoes for Standing & Walking All Day (From A Trainer)

Between standing at my work desk and taking walk breaks throughout the day, I’m on my feet a lot. And I’m always looking for the best shoes for myself and to recommend to family. Luckily, our team testers put in the time to help you find the best Hoka for standing all day!

Whether you’re standing for work all day or generally spending a lot of time on your feet, it puts a lot of stress on your feet.

Think about those days when you may have spent 7+ hours straight on your feet, and you couldn’t ...

Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 Review | Cushion with Max Traction

The Saucony Xodus Ultra 4 has leveled up.  A Vibram outsole and a max cushioned shoe that doesn’t look like the mega-cushioned shoes, it’s hard to beat for anyone who wants comfort and security in a trail shoe.

Hearing that this was a max cushioned shoe even before opening the box I already had my ideas of what it was going to look like and was preparing for a chunky shoe. 

I opened the box to find what looked like a pretty standard cushioning and then had my doubts about this max cushioning s...

Hoka vs Asics: Which Brand Wins for Cushioning, Fit & Durability?

Comparing Hoka vs ASICS running shoes could largely be described as a difference in fit and feel, along with some company philosophy if you care about those things. But of course we know that Hoka came on the scene due to their maximal shoes and that’s interesting all on its own!

Especially because in the last few years, more brands are jumping on this trend to add more cushion to their shoes without adding weight! Now maybe it’s not so different to have that big stack height.

Both brands provi...