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
Build stronger arms and upper body muscle using just 2 dumbbells with this 10-minute resistance workout — no gym required
By Jessica Downey last updated
This no repeats dumbbell workout will build on strength in your upper body and can be done in 10 minutes.
No, not sit-ups — trainer shares these 6 exercises to blast your core in just 12 minutes
By Jessica Downey published
This trainer-led workout will challenge your core muscles, including the abs, in 12 minutes. No sit-ups included!
What are the best running hats? I'm a marathon runner and these are my top picks
By Jennifer Rizzuto last updated
Come rain or sunshine, a running hat is there to protect your head from the elements. Here's our list of the best running hats you can buy in 2025.
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.
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.
The best running sunglasses 2025 according to our testing
By Jessica Downey last updated
Quality running sunglasses for all runners
The best Lululemon leggings 2025, according to our testing
By Jessica Downey last updated
We put the best Lululemon leggings to the test to help you find a set that'll support you no matter your workout style and boost your confidence.
Boost your metabolism and build full-body muscle in just 30 minutes — all you need is 1 pair of dumbbells
By Jessica Downey published
Grab some dumbbells and get stuck into this 30-minute full-body strength building routine. Trainer demonstrations included.
I did 70 cycling Russian twists every day for a week — here's what happened to my abs
By Jessica Downey published
The Russian twist is an effective abs-strengthening move, but I tried this variation to work my core even harder.
The best running belts 2025
By Hollie Sick last updated
These are the best running belts we've tested that keep important items safe without obstructing your running experience.
Best running shoes 2025, according to our testing
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’m using these 4 moves to keep my hips strong and injury free in my 2025 running routine
By Jessica Downey published
Runners! Physical therapist shares four moves you need to use if you want to run stronger and prevent injury this year.
Best running apps for 2025
By Jane McGuire last updated
As runners, we all have different goals but there is a running app out there for everyone that will improve your experience pounding the pavements or trails. Here's our favorites.
No gym? Use this 30-minute walking workout instead to build a stronger upper body and core and boost your metabolism
By Jessica Downey published
Just 30 minutes of feel-good movement that can be done anywhere to build strength, engage your core, and boost your wellbeing.
No, not push-ups — this 6-move dumbbell workout builds upper body muscle in your chest and triceps
By Jessica Downey published
Tone and build
No sit-ups or crunches — just 15 minutes of core building kettlebell exercises
By Jessica Downey published
Spice up your core training with this all-standing kettlebell circuit.
Forget running — this 25-minute walking workout will boost your metabolism and improve your core strength
By Jessica Downey published
Raise your heart rate and increase your core strength, no equipment required.
Forget the gym — this equipment-free workout builds full-body muscle and boosts your metabolism in just 10 minutes
By Jessica Downey published
You can do this 10-minute workout anywhere and anytime you need a quick and a effective full-body blast.
I ditched sit-ups and crunches for this 30-minute Pilates routine to build a stronger core — here’s what happened to my abs
By Jessica Downey published
Pilates is a great alternative to standard ab workouts if you want to build core strength without crunches and sit-ups. Here's a 30-minute routine to get you started.
I tried the 4-7-8 breathing technique every day for 2 weeks — here’s what happened to my mind and body
By Jessica Downey published
I tried out the 4-7-8 breathing technique every day for two weeks to see what effect it had on my mind and body. Here's my results.
Forget the gym — you just need 15 minutes and 1 kettlebell to build a stronger core with this standing ab workout
By Jessica Downey published
This is the kind of ab workout you can do anywhere, with just one kettlebell and 15 minutes of your time.
Best hiking boots in 2025 — tested and rated for walks and trails
By John R. Quain, Dan Bracaglia, Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best hiking boots to in 2024, including the best waterproof hiking boots and the best hiking boots for bad weather.
Forget the gym — you only need 6 moves to build full-body muscle and boost your metabolism
By Jessica Downey published
This 20-minute bodyweight workout is easy to fit in around other commitments and will easily get your heart rate up.
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