Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 36

London Marathon Course Tips + Common London FAQs

Anyone getting ready to run the London Marathon needs to read this post! It’s everything I wish I’d known in advance to have the best day possible for a number of our RTTF athletes. Even as a running coach there were lessons to be learned and each race is a little different. The London marathon course in particular has some really key points to know!

Luckily, I was able to cheer at many spots along the course and then talk in-depth with folks who finished for the first time as well as those who ...

Arc’teryx Vertex Speed Review

If you’re looking for trail shoes that are lightweight, flashy, and fun, look no more because the Arc’teryx Vertex Speed checks all of those boxes.

Upon receiving the Arc’Teryx Vertex Speed in the mail, I really wasn’t sure what to expect since I have never run in this brand of trail shoe before.

This well known Canadian company has a great reputation for outdoor and climbing gear, but is somewhat newer to the trail and running shoe community, so I was ready to put them to the test!

Did they pa...

April “We Tried It” Gear Testing | Snazzy Sunglasses to Redlights

Gear testing is in full force over here, and we’re excited to share some fun things with you this month. We did the hard work of putting the gear to the test to give our honest feedback on whether it’s truly worth it.

If you’re searching for gear to get you through fake spring or even fake summer, looking for new fuel to try for the spring training season, or have questions about new running gadgets, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Okay, enough chatter, let’s dive into our April “We...

15 Running Gifts for Dad – Celebrating Him All Year

For whatever occasion you’re celebrating, we’ve put together a list of running gifts for Dad. From gadgets to running shoes and everything in between, we think you’ll find something that will put a smile on his face.

photo from @marcus1rc15 Running Gifts Dad Will Love

Why is it always so hard to buy for that father figure in your life?? I mean, worst case scenario, you get a gift card to RoadRunner Sports or REI, which will have darn near anything they could possibly need!

It was so hard to nar...

100 Best Running Quotes to Inspire and Motivate All Runners

You might shrug off a lot of quotes as cliche or trite, but the truth is that good motivational running quotes can change your run. It shifts the mindset and gives you a new way to look at your struggle.

Every runner needs a little bit of motivation every now or then, and a running quote is one of the best ways to get going.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner, or just starting off, you’re sure to find something here that will give you that extra little push today.

100 Running Quotes for Marathon ...

10 Best Running Shoes for Bunions

In the US alone over 100 million people deal with bunions. So you are not alone in trying to figure out the best running shoes for bunions! I’ve got friends who deal with this and it’s important to know that they don’t have to mean the end of your running.

The right running shoe is going to make a massive difference in reducing discomfort while running.

Previously I’ve written about the running with bunions treatment techniques, like taping bunions and foot exercises. Make sure you check that o...

Tracksmith Eliot Racer Review | Built for Race Day

We’re living in the golden age of running shoes, with innovation at every turn. But can a brand known primarily for apparel shake up the racing shoe scene with just its second-ever release? Honestly, I would’ve said, “No way.” But then I met my new best friend—the Tracksmith Eliot Racer.

Every detail of this shoe feels intentional, from its crisp, preppy design to its innovative removable midsole. It’s sleek, fast, and effortlessly refined.

The ride is smooth, the speed is electric, and the com...

Marathon Fueling Strategy | What to Eat, When and How Much on Race Day

As any experienced runner knows, success in a marathon is not solely determined by physical training. It’s a harmonious interplay of mental resilience, strategic planning, and, of course, impeccable marathon fueling. You’ve spent months getting ready to run 26.2, don’t let your marathon fuel plan be an afterthought, because it could make or break your day.

In my decades of coaching and personal running endeavors, I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of proper fueling on the marathon...

Altra Mont Blanc Speed Review | Feeling Fast to Go The Distance

Remember when we were kids and people would tell us that our new shoes made us look fast? It’s time to bring that feeling back. The Altra Mont Blanc Speed doesn’t just look fast—it makes me feel fast.  

The Mont Blanc Speed lives up to its name—it’s designed for speed and motivates me to push harder with every stride. The sleek design, particularly the faded green accents on the midsole, gives it a fast look. Perhaps the warm spring weather is inspiring me, but it feels like the shoes themselves...

Kiprun KD900X LD+ Review | A Steady Speedster

It’s a wild time to be a runner—shoe tech is evolving faster than ever, and race times are tumbling. Since the OG Nike Vaporfly shook things up in 2017, we’ve seen breakthrough designs and new players step onto the scene. One of the latest? Kiprun, a French brand making waves with the KD900X LD+, their latest take on a marathon racing shoe.

The Kiprun KD900X LD+ is an eye-catching, durable racing shoe that delivers a cushioned ride. But does it have the speed to compete with the best? Let’s div...