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Run to the Finish: The Everyday Runner's Guide to Avoiding Injury, Ignoring the Clock, and Loving the Run
Inspiration and practical tips for runners who prioritize enjoyment over pace and embrace their place as an "average" runnerIn her first book, popular runner blogger Amanda Brooks lays out the path to finding greater fulfillment in running for those who consider themselves "middle of the pack runners" -- they're not trying to win Boston (or even qualify for Boston); they just want to get strong and stay injury-free so they can continue to enjoy running.Run to the Finish is not your typical running book. While it is filled with useful strategic training advice throughout, at its core, it is about embracing your place in the middle of the pack with humor and learning to love the run you've got without comparing yourself to other runners. Mixing practical advice like understanding the discomfort vs. pain, the mental side of running, and movements to treat the most common injuries with more playful elements such as "Favorite hilarious marathon signs" and "Weird Thoughts We all Have at the Start Line," Brooks is the down-to-earth, inspiring guide for everyone who wants to be happier with their run.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 3, 2020
188 people are currently reading
1007 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Brooks
1 book89 followersAmanda Brooks was a writer long before graduating with a journalism degree. However, it wasn't until she found her love of running that it all came together. Since 2007, she has published over 3,000 articles on her website and over 1,500 highly researched pieces, helping to create a great community of runners.
In between that time on the computer, she's still hitting the roads and loving every moment of an average 1600 miles per year.
In between that time on the computer, she's still hitting the roads and loving every moment of an average 1600 miles per year.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
February 28, 2020
Earlier this month I dnf'ed a judgmental running book within the first few pages, and I'm so happy to have picked up Run to the Finish instead. If you run, you are a runner. Full stop. In Run to the Finish, Amanda Brooks acknowledges that on the bell curve of running capabilities, most of us are going to fall somewhere in the middle.
What I absolutely love about this book is it shows the mindset of a runner. Runners are such great people, and I think she nails the passion and the lack of judgment that you will find with the majority of runners.
It took me a while to figure out who this book was intended for. At first I thought it was for someone who was considering becoming a runner. I felt like the first 10% was spent convincing me to become a runner even though I already was one. But then the next 20% made running sound so painful I felt like the people she convinced to run in the first chapter would already be ready to quit!
Thankfully she mentioned running isn't actually supposed to hurt before she dove into injuries and prevention.
In the second half of the book, she took a look at training plans and gave advice on nutrition, clothing, etiquette, and more for race day.
I love that the author is passionate about running and is sharing her experience and knowledge with anyone interested in being a runner. I think the best audience for this book is probably the beginning runner who is looking for insight into what it means and what it takes to be a runner or the runner who would like some insight into entering road races.
Review copy provided by publisher
What I absolutely love about this book is it shows the mindset of a runner. Runners are such great people, and I think she nails the passion and the lack of judgment that you will find with the majority of runners.
It took me a while to figure out who this book was intended for. At first I thought it was for someone who was considering becoming a runner. I felt like the first 10% was spent convincing me to become a runner even though I already was one. But then the next 20% made running sound so painful I felt like the people she convinced to run in the first chapter would already be ready to quit!
Thankfully she mentioned running isn't actually supposed to hurt before she dove into injuries and prevention.
In the second half of the book, she took a look at training plans and gave advice on nutrition, clothing, etiquette, and more for race day.
I love that the author is passionate about running and is sharing her experience and knowledge with anyone interested in being a runner. I think the best audience for this book is probably the beginning runner who is looking for insight into what it means and what it takes to be a runner or the runner who would like some insight into entering road races.
Review copy provided by publisher
March 2, 2020
I liked the title of this book. There are a ton of books out there that talk about how to increase speed or run long distances. There are fewer that just talk about how to love the run and how to keep doing the thing you love. I wish there had been a little bit more on the love of running or some descriptions of the author's run but I did enjoy the inclusion of lists of possible causes of injuries, exercises, and training. The inclusion of cross-training, especially the off days (restorative yoga was a nice touch), was also nice. While informative, some of this information was a little dry but overall a nice book for those of us who aren't elite athletes but just can't seem to quit the sport.
February 25, 2020
** I received a free ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. **
To quote Run to the Finish, "This book is for the runners who aren't in it for the podium, but instead for the feeling of satisfaction from a mile well run."
That one quote sums up my relationship with running. Even though I've been running for almost 7 years now, my pace hasn't drastically improved from when I first finished the Couch to 5k program. I've never placed in the top 3 of any AG categories. And while I still get the very occasional PR, I'm totally trying to adjust to a new mindset that my biggest competition is myself and to not beat myself up. My main goal for races now is to just simply have fun (and not get injured). Brooks' section about dealing with your "inner Simon Cowell" and overcoming any mental barriers that one may put on themselves rang true to me. The last few months leading up to my January marathon had been about getting out of my own head and
This book had a whole bunch of info regarding everything there is to running. I especially enjoyed the parts where Brooks went into detail about how to help stretch and strengthen your glutes and hips to help improve on your running form. I wish I had read this book before I did my recent training cycle for my first marathon. I came out of training and post-race relatively unscathed, but I still feel like this would have been beneficial to read before or during the process.
To quote Run to the Finish, "This book is for the runners who aren't in it for the podium, but instead for the feeling of satisfaction from a mile well run."
That one quote sums up my relationship with running. Even though I've been running for almost 7 years now, my pace hasn't drastically improved from when I first finished the Couch to 5k program. I've never placed in the top 3 of any AG categories. And while I still get the very occasional PR, I'm totally trying to adjust to a new mindset that my biggest competition is myself and to not beat myself up. My main goal for races now is to just simply have fun (and not get injured). Brooks' section about dealing with your "inner Simon Cowell" and overcoming any mental barriers that one may put on themselves rang true to me. The last few months leading up to my January marathon had been about getting out of my own head and
This book had a whole bunch of info regarding everything there is to running. I especially enjoyed the parts where Brooks went into detail about how to help stretch and strengthen your glutes and hips to help improve on your running form. I wish I had read this book before I did my recent training cycle for my first marathon. I came out of training and post-race relatively unscathed, but I still feel like this would have been beneficial to read before or during the process.
July 28, 2022
This is a very basic introduction to running races, of any distance. While I enjoyed the tone of the book, the author kept it light with lots of silly jokes, I'm not sure I learned anything that I didn't already know--and I don't even run that much. My two biggest take aways were that I need to do a better job of warming up my muscles before a workout and I should eat more fruits and veggies.
June 21, 2025
Great book for beginners who are starting or want to start serious running and racing! Entertaining, inspiring, and informative.
March 10, 2020
Longtime running blogger Amanda Brooks brings her commonsense advice and running experience to this comprehensive book for all the regular and wannabe runner out there. I found Amanda's book easy to read yet loaded with great advice and positivity.
Full review coming on my blog: https://www.takinglongwayhome.com/202...
Full review coming on my blog: https://www.takinglongwayhome.com/202...
June 16, 2020
I'm a runner!
At least that's the message of Run to the Finish by Amanda Brooks. Let me back up a bit. I used to be obese. I lost 50 pounds and over the past few years I've started doing things that used to seem like torture. Like running. I've gotten to the point where I almost enjoy running. (More accurately, I enjoy the feeling after I've just finished running.) I'm not going to set any speed records and I don't travel with the latest road race in mind. I run a few miles around my neighborhood a few times a week and see if I can do it a little faster than last time.
So much of the running world is consumed with ideas of perfection. You have to be doing everything right or else you don't belong to the rarefied club of real runners. I've been hesitant to call myself a "runner" in the same way that I was slow to call myself a "cyclist" when I was a bike commuter. Am I good enough to warrant such a lofty title? Brooks explodes this myth. If you run, you're a runner, simple as that. She offers battle-tested advice from her years of experience to help make you a better runner and avoid injury. I highly recommend this book to anybody who is either a new runner or self-taught. It strikes just the right balance: it's science-based without reading like a textbook and it's supportive without being fluffy.
At least that's the message of Run to the Finish by Amanda Brooks. Let me back up a bit. I used to be obese. I lost 50 pounds and over the past few years I've started doing things that used to seem like torture. Like running. I've gotten to the point where I almost enjoy running. (More accurately, I enjoy the feeling after I've just finished running.) I'm not going to set any speed records and I don't travel with the latest road race in mind. I run a few miles around my neighborhood a few times a week and see if I can do it a little faster than last time.
So much of the running world is consumed with ideas of perfection. You have to be doing everything right or else you don't belong to the rarefied club of real runners. I've been hesitant to call myself a "runner" in the same way that I was slow to call myself a "cyclist" when I was a bike commuter. Am I good enough to warrant such a lofty title? Brooks explodes this myth. If you run, you're a runner, simple as that. She offers battle-tested advice from her years of experience to help make you a better runner and avoid injury. I highly recommend this book to anybody who is either a new runner or self-taught. It strikes just the right balance: it's science-based without reading like a textbook and it's supportive without being fluffy.
June 30, 2020
I love following the author on social media so I was excited to see she wrote a book. I definitely learned some things, googled some things and it kept me motivated.
January 29, 2021
4.5 stars. Delightful. Loved the format and advice given. I just wish it came with a PDF that outlined all the exercises/stretches she describes.
January 9, 2022
Run To The Finish by Amanda Brooks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Overview: This book gives running training advice and tips for “middle of the pack”, rather than elite, runners. It focuses on enjoying running for the sake of running without comparing yourself to other runners.
👍Likes: Love the different approach this book takes to other sporting books, great tips, practical, minimal waffle, eye opening, humorous, down-to-earth writing style.
👎Dislikes: I listened to this book but would recommend reading it instead. There are great tips throughout where would be clearer to read then to listen to.
🎧Format: Audio via Audible
🤓Recommend For: Middle of the pack runners, who want to continue running until old age. Great for first time marathon runners.
📙Book Topics:
👉dynamic warmups and the power of gratitude miles
👉understanding the difference between discomfort and pain
👉mastering the mental side of running
👉treating the most common injuries
🏃♀️Book Quotes:
💬 This not a book "for the elite runners. It's a book for me and you and the 98 percent of us in the middle of the pack to know that its just fine to be the best runner you can be while juggling work, family, friends, and still enjoying that delicious slice of pizza every Friday night.”
💬 “Once you cross the finish line of a distance that once seemed unattainable, the sense that you can tackle anything becomes very real."
💬 “This book is for the runners who aren’t in it for the podium finish, but instead for the feeling for satisfaction from a mile well run.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚Overview: This book gives running training advice and tips for “middle of the pack”, rather than elite, runners. It focuses on enjoying running for the sake of running without comparing yourself to other runners.
👍Likes: Love the different approach this book takes to other sporting books, great tips, practical, minimal waffle, eye opening, humorous, down-to-earth writing style.
👎Dislikes: I listened to this book but would recommend reading it instead. There are great tips throughout where would be clearer to read then to listen to.
🎧Format: Audio via Audible
🤓Recommend For: Middle of the pack runners, who want to continue running until old age. Great for first time marathon runners.
📙Book Topics:
👉dynamic warmups and the power of gratitude miles
👉understanding the difference between discomfort and pain
👉mastering the mental side of running
👉treating the most common injuries
🏃♀️Book Quotes:
💬 This not a book "for the elite runners. It's a book for me and you and the 98 percent of us in the middle of the pack to know that its just fine to be the best runner you can be while juggling work, family, friends, and still enjoying that delicious slice of pizza every Friday night.”
💬 “Once you cross the finish line of a distance that once seemed unattainable, the sense that you can tackle anything becomes very real."
💬 “This book is for the runners who aren’t in it for the podium finish, but instead for the feeling for satisfaction from a mile well run.”
April 2, 2025
Unfortunately, I just didn't love this book and I didn't feel like it applied to me as much as I'd hoped. While she does discuss other race distances, she heavily focused on marathons, and at this point in my life, I'm not really interested in running one. I also felt like this book would be great for beginning runners, but not one who have already learned a thing or two. I skipped over a good amount of her advice because I'd already learned it (through trial and error) though I admit there were still some good nuggets in there.
I really couldn't stand the 2nd person POV. I didn't enjoy feeling slightly lectured the whole time. I found that I just skipped around to paragraphs that pertained to me or that sounded interesting. There were a lot of things I didn't know, but far more that I did, or that seemed pretty obvious. I also am not a competitive runner who is out for that PR, which was the type of audience she was writing to. All in all, this isn't a terrible book, I just wasn't in the mood for it, nor was I the right audience for it.
I really couldn't stand the 2nd person POV. I didn't enjoy feeling slightly lectured the whole time. I found that I just skipped around to paragraphs that pertained to me or that sounded interesting. There were a lot of things I didn't know, but far more that I did, or that seemed pretty obvious. I also am not a competitive runner who is out for that PR, which was the type of audience she was writing to. All in all, this isn't a terrible book, I just wasn't in the mood for it, nor was I the right audience for it.
March 2, 2025
I love Amanda Brooks’ podcast and instagram, so I was excited to delve into her book. As a running coach, she’s full of knowledge and great actionable advice that I’m eating up while training for some big races this year. I love that this catered to “middle of the pack” runners who just love the enjoyment of the sport. It’s fun to PR, but longevity is the name of the game for us middle-packers. Mt favorite section of this book was the “prehab” and dynamic warm up as that’s something I was lacking, to my detriment.
Read
December 21, 2020More about marathon-running than expected, but I appreciated the emphasis on practices that will help you keep running throughout your life and eventually win that race at 80 ;)
February 8, 2021
Not entirely sure, but I think the author really likes pizza.
Read
September 14, 2021My favorite running book to date. Lighthearted, witty, and written to the “middle of the pack” runner rather than the elite runner. The chapters on injury were specifically helpful. I’d enjoy reading again when I’m back to training
May 27, 2025
really good for beginner runners!
May 19, 2020
So I’ve been out with a knee injury since the beginning of February. Over the last 3 months my Strava has logged a grand total of 2 miles. Needless to say, I haven’t felt like much of a runner lately. But I’m so glad that on one of those days when I was laid up on the couch, bingeing Netflix and feeling sorry for myself, I pre-ordered Run to the Finish.
This book reminded me to be proud of myself, of how much I’ve learnt and how much progress I’ve made. Since the first day of couch to 5k, when I was running 30 second intervals and my shins hurt like hell, I’ve persisted. That’s worth something! It also reminded me why I fell in love with running in the first place - the sense of freedom, the clear mind, and hello, the ENDORPHINS. As Amanda rightly points out, you don’t need to be hitting a certain pace or a certain number of miles for that.
RTTF is filled with tips for how to look after yourself as a runner, how to train smarter. There’s a little bit of everything - dynamic warmups, hip strengtheners, nutrition. The tone is casual and funny, like a more experienced runner friend sharing what has and hasn’t worked for her (except there’s also science, yay science). Perhaps most valuable is the advice around the mental side of running - how to deal with setbacks, not take yourself too seriously, and enjoy the little victories.
Basically, a great read. Looking forward to getting out there again after my injury and putting it all into practice!
This book reminded me to be proud of myself, of how much I’ve learnt and how much progress I’ve made. Since the first day of couch to 5k, when I was running 30 second intervals and my shins hurt like hell, I’ve persisted. That’s worth something! It also reminded me why I fell in love with running in the first place - the sense of freedom, the clear mind, and hello, the ENDORPHINS. As Amanda rightly points out, you don’t need to be hitting a certain pace or a certain number of miles for that.
RTTF is filled with tips for how to look after yourself as a runner, how to train smarter. There’s a little bit of everything - dynamic warmups, hip strengtheners, nutrition. The tone is casual and funny, like a more experienced runner friend sharing what has and hasn’t worked for her (except there’s also science, yay science). Perhaps most valuable is the advice around the mental side of running - how to deal with setbacks, not take yourself too seriously, and enjoy the little victories.
Basically, a great read. Looking forward to getting out there again after my injury and putting it all into practice!
April 13, 2020
Thank you Amanda is where I want to start on this review!
I've followed Amanda Brooks for a while on Instagram and fell in love with her thoughts on running, her outlook, and personality. I just hate that I had a prior engagement when the Run to the Finish Book Tour came to Atlanta in February.
Here are a few reason why I loved this book and give it 5+ stars!
First and foremost, I love the fact that Amanda wrote all the words of this book. As an author myself, I appreciate the fact that she is a journalism major and didn't need a co-writer on this. There are several books by influencers or superstars that are great book but are co-written. This made me smile that this is all Amanda.
This book is easy to read, fun, and full of truth on so many levels. Amanda focuses on the average or middle of the road runner.
She gives solid and honest advice for the new runner.
She takes the myths of "who" is a runner and lays out the truths.
There is solid research to start running and being the best you can be in this book
There are great exercises, running plans, and everything you need to start a journey running in this book
Most importantly, this book allowed me to see that "forward is a pace" and Bit's okay to forget pace or what others thing of you. (Something I've struggled with since the day people noticed I wasn't your "average" mama runner.) It allowed me to look at what I can do to bring my joy of running back and one is to run for a bigger cause. I already know what that will be.- The Foundation for Prader-Willi Syndrome. Now the question is which race- a Rock n Roll Series Half or Full or go big with the NYC? 2020 or 2021? Regardless, this charity is one that touches my heart thanks to this young man right here. He's one of my students and he makes me smile each and every day.
Full Review at www.authorcaseypeeler.com/bog on May 5, 2020
I've followed Amanda Brooks for a while on Instagram and fell in love with her thoughts on running, her outlook, and personality. I just hate that I had a prior engagement when the Run to the Finish Book Tour came to Atlanta in February.
Here are a few reason why I loved this book and give it 5+ stars!
First and foremost, I love the fact that Amanda wrote all the words of this book. As an author myself, I appreciate the fact that she is a journalism major and didn't need a co-writer on this. There are several books by influencers or superstars that are great book but are co-written. This made me smile that this is all Amanda.
This book is easy to read, fun, and full of truth on so many levels. Amanda focuses on the average or middle of the road runner.
She gives solid and honest advice for the new runner.
She takes the myths of "who" is a runner and lays out the truths.
There is solid research to start running and being the best you can be in this book
There are great exercises, running plans, and everything you need to start a journey running in this book
Most importantly, this book allowed me to see that "forward is a pace" and Bit's okay to forget pace or what others thing of you. (Something I've struggled with since the day people noticed I wasn't your "average" mama runner.) It allowed me to look at what I can do to bring my joy of running back and one is to run for a bigger cause. I already know what that will be.- The Foundation for Prader-Willi Syndrome. Now the question is which race- a Rock n Roll Series Half or Full or go big with the NYC? 2020 or 2021? Regardless, this charity is one that touches my heart thanks to this young man right here. He's one of my students and he makes me smile each and every day.
Full Review at www.authorcaseypeeler.com/bog on May 5, 2020
September 29, 2021
As I get more into running and taking it seriously I've been wanting to read more about it so I've picked up a number of books. This is my favorite one I've found so far because it feels (mostly) targeted at runners like me. I want to take it seriously and do my best, and I've seen a lot of improvement (I'm not a bad runner these days!), but I'm never going to be an elite or dedicate my life to it. This sort of "in between" person that isn't an elite athlete but also more than just starting out or doing it as a hobby or way to lose weight is probably the person who will get the most out of this.
It had a lot of good advice and insight in a number of different areas and ways. There's a good amount of mental encouragement and motivation. There's also stretches, nutrition info, training plans, etc. I borrowed it from my library but I'm planning to buy a copy of it because I know there are things I will want to turn back to.
My only complaint is that some/a lot of the advice is geared only towards marathon training and running. I've done 2 marathons but my focus is really half marathons so I would have liked to see more information specifically about that. While there's info in some sections, it was the ending that was a bit lacking. She talked about recovery after running a marathon, how long you should wait to run again, etc. - I'd love to hear that for a half marathon as well.
I also really liked the author's writing style and it made me laugh out loud a number of times. I think we could be friends.
It had a lot of good advice and insight in a number of different areas and ways. There's a good amount of mental encouragement and motivation. There's also stretches, nutrition info, training plans, etc. I borrowed it from my library but I'm planning to buy a copy of it because I know there are things I will want to turn back to.
My only complaint is that some/a lot of the advice is geared only towards marathon training and running. I've done 2 marathons but my focus is really half marathons so I would have liked to see more information specifically about that. While there's info in some sections, it was the ending that was a bit lacking. She talked about recovery after running a marathon, how long you should wait to run again, etc. - I'd love to hear that for a half marathon as well.
I also really liked the author's writing style and it made me laugh out loud a number of times. I think we could be friends.
April 18, 2020
This is the ultimate running book for those of us middle of the pack runners, who want to BQ(qualify for the Boston Marathon), or a achieve other lofty running goals but get hurt trying to keep up with the Joneses, putting the cart before the horse! Amanda comes across a pizza 🍕 loving, non judgmental running guru, who has been where the beginners have and has found her happy place running. There is tons of practical advice in this book, especially about body maintenance, like hip strengthening, and different training methods that may suit each of us better. She is an absolute sweetheart on Instagram and always willing to help someone out, can’t wait for her next 😊
June 26, 2020
This book is for you if: you love throwaway footnotes; the race you're running on "race day" is at least a marathon (and you've maybe never run a race before? -- it's full of super-basic race-day tips); running over the span of your life means cycling through training plans (but you claim it doesn't); you think it's odd that anyone would find motivation to run if they're not training for a race; you need to be talked out of fixating on PRs; & you don't just want to run when you're 80, you jokingly want to BQ at 80. I was hoping for a book that talked about a lifetime of joyful running. This was fine and motivational, but uneven and too race-focused.
April 28, 2020
Worth the read
At times the book felt more directed at beginning runners and not the average runner with a few years under their belt. Still, there were several useful insights and the overall message was perfect for the recreational runner. I definitely learned a few things to implement and enjoyed reading input from a running coach, who is clearly informed on a breadth of running research, appropriately discuss common myths and support a personalized plan for runners.
At times the book felt more directed at beginning runners and not the average runner with a few years under their belt. Still, there were several useful insights and the overall message was perfect for the recreational runner. I definitely learned a few things to implement and enjoyed reading input from a running coach, who is clearly informed on a breadth of running research, appropriately discuss common myths and support a personalized plan for runners.
October 9, 2020
I really like the beginning, and the tone of sarcasm and wit was really funny...at first. But the book got long, and boring, and the tone stopped being funny and started to veer towards exhausting.
There's a lot of great info in here, but I guess I'm not a beginner anymore (however slow and erratic my running is, I've been doing it a long time.)
There's a lot of great info in here, but I guess I'm not a beginner anymore (however slow and erratic my running is, I've been doing it a long time.)
November 13, 2022
This was decent enough but it wasn't much new here. It may be suffering from that I have read a lot of running books over the last year. I also had a hard time picking out what the author was trying to say overall as it felt a bit rambly.
Having said that though I did enjoy it and I think their love of running comes through.
Recommend - Soft yes.
Reread - Soft yes.
July 23, 2020
Love the blog, loved the book. Lots of useful tips for "middle of the pack" runners on injury prevention and training, and a great focus on finding joy in running.
February 21, 2024
***
A mostly entertaining and motivational book, but it's not really clear who she's writing to/for, and as a result is less useful for everyone. On the one hand, she's writing for the "typical" runner, which in her book is a marathoner who regularly runs 4-5 times (for 20+ miles) per week, for most of the year, and has been doing so for at least several years. Which is fine, there are certainly plenty of dedicated runners who fit that bill. The problem is that most of her advice is for novice runners who are insecure about their status and don't know the first thing of managing their training or their gear. She mocks casual or new runners who are proud of their recent 5k achievement, because she does that every day before breakfast, and humble brags about the 2 dozen pairs of running shoes in her closet. Then turns around and admonishes the reader to make sure that their shoes fit properly, as if that wouldn't have been apparent by the 2nd or 3rd pair. Lacking in the discussion is useful detail about how to build up a shoe rotation (e.g. shoes specific to daily use, long runs, recovery, speedwork, races, etc.) other than a couple of flippant comments.
Some of her advice is also rather dubious. She's "a huge fan of compression for recovery. It simply increases blood flow to the area, which promotes recovery." Except that compression does the exact opposite, it restricts blood flow to the area, which is why it's used to reduce swelling for strains, sprains and similar injuries.
Her nutrition advice is generally ok, with an emphasis to eat lots of "freggies" (fruits & veggies) to ward off "runger" (running induced hunger), but also veers into similarly unfounded territory, such as promoting turmeric and other unproven/debunked supplements.
A mostly entertaining and motivational book, but it's not really clear who she's writing to/for, and as a result is less useful for everyone. On the one hand, she's writing for the "typical" runner, which in her book is a marathoner who regularly runs 4-5 times (for 20+ miles) per week, for most of the year, and has been doing so for at least several years. Which is fine, there are certainly plenty of dedicated runners who fit that bill. The problem is that most of her advice is for novice runners who are insecure about their status and don't know the first thing of managing their training or their gear. She mocks casual or new runners who are proud of their recent 5k achievement, because she does that every day before breakfast, and humble brags about the 2 dozen pairs of running shoes in her closet. Then turns around and admonishes the reader to make sure that their shoes fit properly, as if that wouldn't have been apparent by the 2nd or 3rd pair. Lacking in the discussion is useful detail about how to build up a shoe rotation (e.g. shoes specific to daily use, long runs, recovery, speedwork, races, etc.) other than a couple of flippant comments.
Some of her advice is also rather dubious. She's "a huge fan of compression for recovery. It simply increases blood flow to the area, which promotes recovery." Except that compression does the exact opposite, it restricts blood flow to the area, which is why it's used to reduce swelling for strains, sprains and similar injuries.
Her nutrition advice is generally ok, with an emphasis to eat lots of "freggies" (fruits & veggies) to ward off "runger" (running induced hunger), but also veers into similarly unfounded territory, such as promoting turmeric and other unproven/debunked supplements.
August 17, 2020
A thankful and hearty 5 stars for RUN to the FINISH by Amanda Brooks or @runtothefinish. As a "newbie," to running, I had been looking for a resource, guide, and sisterly advice on running to answer questions I had and help me with questions I didn't have yet. RUN to the FINISH is the perfect running buddy for the introverted, busy people in the world who don't know what to ask or have anyone close to them they can ask.
Amanda offers tips and pointers on everything from electrolyte replacement and chafing (THANK YOU!). She talks about running in the winter. In the rain. And, the options of water-resistant rain gear vs. waterPROOF rain gear. Spoiler alert: Pick the water-resistant for running :)
There are tips on stretching, endurance training, race day, and recovery information for post-runs. Regardless of if you're a daily, neighborhood runner like myself or if you're training for a big race, she lays out details in a "take what fits," way that is enduring, honest, and so, so needed.
There are resources at the back, including links for her blog and extra communities of support and an index for quick help and reference when needed. I highly recommend this book for newbie runners or seasoned runners. I think you'll find her tone, enthusiasm, and tried and true advice refreshing. I've been looking for this book for quite some time and I'm happy to call Amanda Brooks an instafriend and an inspiration.
#happyrunning #amandabrooks @runtothefinish #runningadvice #runningresources #bookreview #5starreview #lovetorun #lovetoread #readandrun #busymom #booklover #sendmebooks #bookstagram #bibliophile #runthis #newbierunner #runningtips
Amanda offers tips and pointers on everything from electrolyte replacement and chafing (THANK YOU!). She talks about running in the winter. In the rain. And, the options of water-resistant rain gear vs. waterPROOF rain gear. Spoiler alert: Pick the water-resistant for running :)
There are tips on stretching, endurance training, race day, and recovery information for post-runs. Regardless of if you're a daily, neighborhood runner like myself or if you're training for a big race, she lays out details in a "take what fits," way that is enduring, honest, and so, so needed.
There are resources at the back, including links for her blog and extra communities of support and an index for quick help and reference when needed. I highly recommend this book for newbie runners or seasoned runners. I think you'll find her tone, enthusiasm, and tried and true advice refreshing. I've been looking for this book for quite some time and I'm happy to call Amanda Brooks an instafriend and an inspiration.
#happyrunning #amandabrooks @runtothefinish #runningadvice #runningresources #bookreview #5starreview #lovetorun #lovetoread #readandrun #busymom #booklover #sendmebooks #bookstagram #bibliophile #runthis #newbierunner #runningtips
August 24, 2020
Stuffed full of enthusiasm, passion, and love for running.
Before reading RTTF, I’d not heard of Amanda Brooks. I’m following her now. This book promised to provide inspiration for running, tips and suggestions for a better run, and ultimately a love letter to runners not wanting to race or worry about their personal best running time. At least, that’s why I picked up the book. I’m a runner. I enjoy running a couple of days a week 2 to maybe 5 miles. I like running on a treadmill and I like running outside. This book sounded like it was made for me, the runner who just wants to run because she enjoys it. So, the book does have suggestions for enjoying your run, but the best part is the information on how to stay injury-free. But it also spends a lot of time discussing training for a marathon and improving your run time. I wasn’t expecting that based on everything else it claimed to be. I haven’t read many running books, so the information she provides might be found in others, but I appreciated learning more about injury prevention (hello hips and glutes) and understanding why I run and even focusing on an intention while I run (very yoga). The author also spends time explaining why running doesn’t destroy your knees even though that myth is strong.
Overall it didn’t quite live up to my expectations, but I still had a good time hanging out with Brooks and her love for running (long distances!).
Before reading RTTF, I’d not heard of Amanda Brooks. I’m following her now. This book promised to provide inspiration for running, tips and suggestions for a better run, and ultimately a love letter to runners not wanting to race or worry about their personal best running time. At least, that’s why I picked up the book. I’m a runner. I enjoy running a couple of days a week 2 to maybe 5 miles. I like running on a treadmill and I like running outside. This book sounded like it was made for me, the runner who just wants to run because she enjoys it. So, the book does have suggestions for enjoying your run, but the best part is the information on how to stay injury-free. But it also spends a lot of time discussing training for a marathon and improving your run time. I wasn’t expecting that based on everything else it claimed to be. I haven’t read many running books, so the information she provides might be found in others, but I appreciated learning more about injury prevention (hello hips and glutes) and understanding why I run and even focusing on an intention while I run (very yoga). The author also spends time explaining why running doesn’t destroy your knees even though that myth is strong.
Overall it didn’t quite live up to my expectations, but I still had a good time hanging out with Brooks and her love for running (long distances!).
April 18, 2022
A DEFINITE MUST READ/LISTEN FOR ANY BEGINNER RUNNER!
I started running when I was 16 or 17 years old. Over the years I stopped running for various reasons with injuries being at the top of that list. I've had multiple knee injuries, multiple slipped disks in my back and SI joint issues. Why am I telling you this when reviewing this book? Because when I got back into running in the fall of 2020, while I wasn't "new" to running, I considered myself a beginner runner and especially when I signed up for a half marathon that I didn't think I was ready for I knew I was a beginner.
I honestly don't remember how I stumbled upon Amanda Brooks but I signed up for her emails and started following her on social media. When I found out she had written a book, I knew that I wanted to listen to it. While the title says it's for the everyday runner, I feel like this is a great resource for everyone, including beginners.
I have ran two half marathons in the last year and have learned something from each training period and race. This book added MORE information that I didn't even know that I needed! Let me put it to you this way, I wasn't even halfway through listening to the audiobook when I ordered a physical copy because she was providing so much information that I knew I needed to see with my own eyes and not just listen!
Thank you Amanda for all the great info and I can't wait to dive in and read your book now that I've finished listening to it!
I started running when I was 16 or 17 years old. Over the years I stopped running for various reasons with injuries being at the top of that list. I've had multiple knee injuries, multiple slipped disks in my back and SI joint issues. Why am I telling you this when reviewing this book? Because when I got back into running in the fall of 2020, while I wasn't "new" to running, I considered myself a beginner runner and especially when I signed up for a half marathon that I didn't think I was ready for I knew I was a beginner.
I honestly don't remember how I stumbled upon Amanda Brooks but I signed up for her emails and started following her on social media. When I found out she had written a book, I knew that I wanted to listen to it. While the title says it's for the everyday runner, I feel like this is a great resource for everyone, including beginners.
I have ran two half marathons in the last year and have learned something from each training period and race. This book added MORE information that I didn't even know that I needed! Let me put it to you this way, I wasn't even halfway through listening to the audiobook when I ordered a physical copy because she was providing so much information that I knew I needed to see with my own eyes and not just listen!
Thank you Amanda for all the great info and I can't wait to dive in and read your book now that I've finished listening to it!
January 22, 2021
I am the kind of person who gets overwhelmed by trying to do fitness/exercise/health research on the internet because there is SO much information to sort through. Is this article from a running specialist, or an influencer trying to sell me a product? Is this science or an opinion? Why are there so many ads covering all the words?
So that’s why I bought this book. The information was straightforward. I never did cross country in high school and don’t come from a running family so i never had the explanation breakdowns of what warmups you should do pre-run, what kind of fuel you need post run, or how to know when your knee pain is actually an issue. This book answered questions like that and the author wrote in a conversational and supportive tone.
Although this book is for “everyday,” “middle of the pack runners” there was a lot more about marathon training than I expected. But I did like how the author was very clear that you don’t need to run marathons, or races of any length to be a real runner. You just have to take care of your body and do your best.
So that’s why I bought this book. The information was straightforward. I never did cross country in high school and don’t come from a running family so i never had the explanation breakdowns of what warmups you should do pre-run, what kind of fuel you need post run, or how to know when your knee pain is actually an issue. This book answered questions like that and the author wrote in a conversational and supportive tone.
Although this book is for “everyday,” “middle of the pack runners” there was a lot more about marathon training than I expected. But I did like how the author was very clear that you don’t need to run marathons, or races of any length to be a real runner. You just have to take care of your body and do your best.
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