Amanda Brooks's Blog

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...

 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...

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...

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.

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.

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...

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...

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.

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...

Training rarely goes perfectly. Busy schedules, bad weather, or simply needing extra rest, missed runs happen. The important thing is knowing they won’t undo all of your hard work. We’ve put together a few tips for how to handle missed runs so that you can get back on track.We’ve all had that guilty feeling after missing a run, but it’s important to keep perspective.

Consistency over weeks and months is what makes the difference, not a few missed days. 

Training cycles are designed with flexibil...

A comparison of the newly launced Asics Megblast vs Sonicblast from our tests. These are two brand new shoes designed more for the average runner to get a taste of that lightweight speed.

I’ve said previously ASICS loves to confuse us with names like the Metaspeed Sky vs Metaspeed Edge which are the same, but the same at all. And now we have a whole line up of Blast shoes, which is indeed intentional as more brands go to this silo approach to define a family of s...