
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

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.

You only need a pair of dumbbells and these 7 moves to build full-body strength
By Jessica Downey published
This seven-move routine targets your upper and lower body while keeping things simple and beginner-friendly.

This 5-move stretching routine boosts your mobility and eases tension — and it only takes 15 minutes
By Jessica Downey published
Mobility coach shares the five exercises you need to unlock tension across your whole body.

Skip the gym — instead try this trainer’s 4-move bodyweight workout to sculpt your arms and core
By Jessica Downey published
There is no equipment involved in this workout designed to build you a stronger core and arms. Just grab a mat and try these four moves.

Skip the sit-ups — try this 30-minute standing abs workout for a stronger core
By Jessica Downey published
Get your heart rate up and strengthen your core with this 30-minute all standing workout routine.

Massive Columbia President's Day sale knocks up to 58% off winter boots and apparel — 9 deals I’d shop now
By Jessica Downey published
Columbia is hosting a mega winter sale with up to 58% off. Shop my favorite deals on boots, jackets, fleeces, and more.

You don’t need pull-ups to build a stronger upper body — here are 3 moves to try instead
By Jessica Downey published
Grab a pair of dumbbells and a band if you want to tone strengthen and build the muscles in your upper body.

Huge Hoka President’s Day sale live now — 11 running shoe and apparel deals starting from $9
By Jessica Downey last updated
With Hoka's sale now on. It's the perfect time to bag an epic deal on running essentials at Hoka including shoes, gloves, t-shirts and more.

No equipment, no crunches — build a stronger core with this 5-move workout
By Jessica Downey published
This quick but effective routine targets your abs, obliques, and lower back. Follow this trainer's demonstrations and get building a stronger core.

Best bike lights in 2025: Tested and reviewed
By Dan Cavallari last updated
The best bike lights we've tested, including the best front and rear bike lights to keep you safe, as well as the best bike light sets.

What are the best running hats for men and women 2025
By Jessica Downey last updated
We've tested the best running hats for breathability, sweat-wicking, and fit.

The best running headphones in 2025
By Nick Harris-Fry last updated
I've tested the best running headphones to help you find a set that'll suit your training, last through even the longest sessions, and help you stay motivated on your run.
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