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

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.

By Jessica Downey published
Build lower body strength and challenge your core with this 4 move dumbbell routine.

The best running sunglasses 2025 according to our testing
By Jessica Downey last updated
We tested the best running sunglasses to help you find a pair that stays put and keeps you focused on every run.

The best running belts 2025
By Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best running belts we've tested that keep important items safe without obstructing your running experience.

I did this trainer's 6-minute core workout everyday for a week — here's what happened to my body
By Jessica Downey published
I tried this 6-minute ab routine everyday for a week to see what it would do to my core. Here are my results.

Skip the gym — you only need 30 minutes to build full-body strength with this dumbbell workout
By Jessica Downey published
Simplify your next workout with this short 30 minute strength building routine. You just need to grab some dumbbells and follow this trainer's lead.

You don’t need crunches to build a strong core — here are 6 exercises to try instead
By Jessica Downey published
Build a stronger core with this fitness trainer's six-move bodyweight workout.

No more runner’s knee — 5 physiotherapist-approved exercises for pain-free running
By Jessica Downey last updated
Physiotherapist and strength coach Jimmy Pipe swears by these 5 moves to help prevent and relieve runner’s knee.

No sit-ups or crunches — this 15-minute dumbbell workout builds a stronger core and improves your posture
By Jessica Downey published
Strengthen your core and sculpt your abs with this four-move dumbbell workout. Trainer Sandy Sklar demonstrates each exercise to help you perfect your form and maximize results.

Best cycling indoor trainers in 2025
By Dan Cavallari last updated
Never miss a session with one of the best cycling indoor trainers in your home. Here's the best models according to our testing.

Best hiking boots in 2025 — tested and rated for mountain trails and casual hikes
By John R. Quain, Dan Bracaglia, Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best hiking boots to in 2025, including the best waterproof hiking boots and the best hiking boots for casual trekkers.

Forget the gym — this trainer's 10-move dumbbell workout will build muscle in your back and biceps
By Jessica Downey last updated
This back and biceps routine builds, strengthens, and sculpts your upper body. You just need 35 minutes and a pair of dumbbells.
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