Jessica Downey
Jessica has been a fitness writer at Tom’s Guide since 2023, bringing three years of experience writing about health, fitness, and the great outdoors. Her passion for exercise began during her childhood, where she spent weekends hiking and competing in local athletics club events. After earning a master’s degree in journalism from Cardiff University, Jessica found the perfect way to combine her love of storytelling and fitness into a career.
Jessica is passionate about testing fitness gear and tech, using her reviews to help readers make informed buying decisions. She ran her first marathon in April 2024, finishing it in 3 hours and 48 minutes. Through her training, she’s developed a deep understanding of what it takes to grow as a runner, from effective workouts and recovery techniques to selecting the right gear for every challenge.
When she’s not at her desk, Jessica enjoys spending time in the kitchen crafting new recipes, braving cold water swims and hiking.
Latest articles by Jessica Downey

I ditched sit-ups for this 4-move dumbbell workout — here's what happened to my core
By Jessica Downey published
This core workout involves just four moves, but with dumbbells and minimal rest, it delivers a serious burn and maximum results.

No gym, no problem — this 35-minute Pilates workout builds full-body strength and tones your core
By Jessica Downey published
No gym or Pilates studio needed. Just 35 minutes, light dumbbells, and your self for a full-body workout at home.

I swapped weights for this resistance band chair workout — and the results surprised me
By Jessica Downey published
This workout skips bulky gym equipment and uses just a chair and a resistance band to build stronger legs.

Best running phone holders 2025
By Jane McGuire last updated
The best running phone holders will allow you to access music, track your workout, and stay connected without interrupting your stride.

The best Nike running shoes in 2025
By Nick Harris-Fry last updated
Looking into buying a record breaking Nike running shoe or just want a reliable trainer to level up your running journey? We've tested them out for you — here's our top picks.

Best running watches of 2025: Top picks for runners of all levels
By Jessica Downey last updated
Our runners spent time with dozens of the best running watches to find the best models for you and your training.

Physio says runners need these 3 calf strength variations in their training — here’s why I’m finally listening
By Jessica Downey published
Want to run stronger? This physio says calf training is key and shares 3 types of exercises.Th

11 best water bottles to buy in 2025, tested and rated
By Jessica Downey last updated
From daily hydration to adventure-ready designs, we've tested a wide range of water bottles and picked our top 10, including options from Lululemon, YETI, Columbia and more.

The Barkley Marathons strikes again — with just 20 finishers in history, can anyone survive 2025?
By Jessica Downey published
Only 20 runners have ever conquered the Barkley Marathons—here’s why it’s one of the toughest races on Earth.

Ditch sit-ups — strengthen and define your core with 1 dumbbell and this 5-move ab workout
By Jessica Downey published
Engage your core, build strength, and tone up with this trainer's five move routine.

I tried this 3-move shoulder workout — here’s what happened to my upper body
By Jessica Downey published
You can train your shoulders with just three moves using a pair of dumbbells and a resistance band.

No gym needed — you just need 1 kettlebell and 30 minutes to build full-body strength and boost your metabolism
By Jessica Downey published
Grab a kettlebell, raise your heart rate and build strength all over in 30 minutes.

Orbea's new e-bike is designed to tackle both road and gravel — and you can build your own
By Jessica Downey published
The just-launched Orbea Denna e-bike blends power and performance with a customizable design.

I tried the 75 'soft' challenge for a week — here's why I'm going to stick with it
By Jessica Downey published
I gave the 75 Soft challenge a try for a week to see if it’s a more doable way to build habits and stay healthy compared to 75 Hard. Here’s what happened

Forget sit-ups — build core strength and boost your mobility in just 15 minutes with this Pilates routine
By Jessica Downey last updated
Get stronger, move better, and feel great in just 15 minutes with this quick, effective workout.

Best women’s running shoes 2025: top picks from New Balance, Brooks, Saucony and more
By Jane McGuire last updated
The best women's running shoes we've tested, including designs from Nike, New Balance, Brooks, Saucony and more.

Best running shoes 2025: expert tested and rated
By Jessica Downey last updated
The best running shoes for all abilities and goals. We've tested every single pair to help you find your ideal match.

I’ve been using compression boots on my legs for a month — and they made a bigger difference than I expected
By Jessica Downey last updated
Are compression boots the secret to faster recovery or just another fitness fad? I tested them for a month — here’s what I found.

No gym? Build upper body strength and torch your core with just a pair of dumbbells and 25 minutes
By Jessica Downey published
This is the ideal strength-building workout for your upper body and core, perfect for busy gyms or training at home.

No gym needed — instead use this 30-minute dumbbell workout to build full-body strength at home
By Jessica Downey published
This full-body strength session is designed to build muscle, boost metabolism, and lift your mood.

You just need a kettlebell and 30 minutes to strengthen your entire posterior chain and torch your core
By Jessica Downey published
This kettlebell workout trains your glutes, hamstrings, shoulders, back, calves and core — and it only takes 30 minutes!

I ran 45 Miles in the Saucony Ride 18 — here's my verdict
By Jessica Downey published
The Saucony Ride 18 is a versatile, well-cushioned daily trainer with an upgraded PWRRUN+ midsole for improved energy return.

Peloton adds kettlebell classes to its strength training — everything you need to know
By Jessica Downey published
Peloton has launched kettlebell classes on the app, offering a new way for members to boost strength.
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