Amanda Brooks's Blog, page 6

Run Faster, Stronger: The Ultimate Carb Guides for Runners

As runners, we need a lot of carbs. It’s one of the most important macronutrients for our bodies. Why, you ask? Because carbohydrates are what fuel our muscles when we run hard, and without them, we wouldn’t be able to have the energy we need for those runs.

So what are the best carbs for runners?? It’s not quite that simple, because not all carbs are made the same.

Knowing what the best carbs for runners are will make a huge difference to the quality of your runs, the energy you have, and to a...

NordicTrack X24 Bike Review | Incline and Decline Feature Is a Game-Changer

Worth every penny. How’s that for a short and sweet review of the NordicTrack X24 spin bike?! We’ve got a lot more details to see if that’s the case for you, but so far we’re impressed.After years of saying I should cross train more (besides strength), I felt like spin was the best option for me. And oddly enough in the last 3-4 months now I’ve had a chance to test a bunch of spin bikes!  The team has reviewed them in all price points from the Echelon bike without a screen, to YeSoul considered ...

Best NordicTrack Treadmills (According to a Running Coach)

As a long time runner whose lived in many climates, I’ve logged countless miles on various types of treadmills, from the basic models to the high-tech ones. And I must say, NordicTrack treadmills have always been at the top of my list.

Here I’ll breakdown the various models and features, along with what you truly need to help you spend wisely.

With their advanced features, durable construction, and sleek designs, NordicTrack treadmills offer a running experience that’s hard to beat. But with so...

Craft Xplor 2 Review | Gravel Biking For Your Feet

The Gravel Grinder is the best description of the Craft Xplor 2.  I would never have guessed that basing the outsole of a shoe on gravel tires for a bike would work so well, but it just perfectly works.

One of the newer names in the trail shoe world, Craft is coming through with some quality shoes built for the miles.

Just looking at the Xplor 2 there are no flashy, stand out features but it delivers a solid, versatile shoe built for going from dirt to concrete all in one run.

Who Is It Good For...

Understanding Heel Bevel: Why This Tiny Detail Changes Everything

Chances are, you haven’t given much thought to a heel bevel, or maybe you don’t even know what it is. But it’s one of those subtle design details to a running shoe that can make a surprisingly big difference in how your run feels.

Line up a few of your running shoes and take a look. Notice how the back edge of the heel isn’t shaped the same in every pair? That’s not just a design choice, it’s functional.

That angled cut is what’s known as the heel bevel. And believe it or not, it can change the...

Hoka Transport Review | All-Day Walking Shoe Where Lifestyle Meets Performance

The Hoka Transport might not be the pair of shoes you’re grabbing to run a few miles in, but it’s the kind of shoe you’ll want to grab for everything else. Think long days on your feet, endless errands, airport sprints, and even those daily power walks that the Run to the Finish team loves. I’ve officially reached the stage where comfort beats style every time…well, almost. If I can pull together an outfit that doesn’t scream “runner”, I’m counting that as a win.

That said, I’m still far more li...

Best New Balance Walking Shoes for Serious Walkers (Or Standing All Day)

Looking for the best New Balance Walking shoes to keep your legs feeling good on the move? Look no farther because today I’m going to help you find just the right pair and make sure this is the right brand for you.

As a gear testing expert who cherishes the rhythm of a good walk and empathizes with the needs of those who rely on their feet all day long, I understand the significance of finding the perfect pair of walking shoes.

Your feet, the unsung heroes of your daily ventures, deserve comfor...

New Balance More v6 Review | More of That Cushion We Love

The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v6 continues New Balance’s tradition of giving you exactly what the name states; More cushion. It’s not a shoe that you’ll wear in search of a new PR, but it’s a shoe you can train in leading up to that PR effort.

From top to bottom the More v6 has been built up to make running enjoyable, especially when running on tired legs. You won’t get any ground feel or a light and nimble running experience, but you’ll get plenty of cushion that is gentle on your legs from...

Topo Phantom 4 WP Review | Waterproofing Winter Runner

Finally! Everything I love about the Topo Phantom 4 is now available in a waterproof design. The shoes aren’t particularly jazzy, but they are just what they need to be: perfectly comfortable and functional. 

After over a decade in business, Topo just released their first-ever waterproof shoe. This is also the first waterproof shoe of its kind. The Topo Phantom WP fills an important need for runners who want a low (but not zero) heel drop and full toe splay with some springy cushioning and prote...

Puma Magnify Nitro 3 Review | Perfect For All the Long Days on Your Feet

For runners who are looking for a solid all-around daily trainer, Puma’s Magnify Nitro 3 is a great update to a shoe we’ve loved before.

The Magnify Nitro 3 is made with cushion and comfort in mind, pulling off a lot of versatility for long distances, quick workouts, and everything in between.

 While it’s a little heavy for a speed workout, the shoe holds up great for daily miles and long runs with some updates that improve the cushioned feel of the shoe underfoot and its overall weight.

In the...