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 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 2024 — 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.
We ran 70 miles in the New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14 — here’s the verdict
By Nick Harris-Fry published
The New Balance Fresh Foam X1080v14 is a comfortable running shoe that will suit a wide range of runners well.
Forget sit-ups — you only need these 5 moves to build a stronger core and boost your posture
By Jessica Downey published
Make these 5 moves a part of your workout regime and you'll build a stronger core over time without the need for weights.
Forget the gym — I’ve been using this 5-move dumbbell workout to grow muscle in my legs and glutes
By Jessica Downey published
Build lower body strength and muscle with this dumbbell only workout led by fitness trainer Sandy Sklar.
I've been increasing my lower-body mobility and speeding up exercise recovery — here’s how I do it in just 5 minutes
By Jessica Downey published
Check out a lower body mobility routine that's a simple tool for unlocking tight hips and lower back — and it only takes five minutes.
No, not sit-ups — these 5 exercises blast your entire core and you don’t need any equipment
By Jessica Downey last updated
This 30-minute bodyweight workout works your entire core with five different moves. Just grab a mat and let's go.
The Nike Pegasus is the top running shoe among Strava users in 2024 — as a running shoe reviewer here’s why I think it’s the people’s favorite
By Jessica Downey published
The Nike Pegasus is a favorite running shoe of this year according to Strava's annual year in sport report. Here's why I think it's a fan favorite.
I'm tracking the best Cyber Monday Apple Watch deals LIVE: huge discounts on the Apple Watch 10, SE and Ultra 2 right now
By James Frew last updated
Don't miss out on a new Apple Watch 10, SE or Ultra at a big discount with these Cyber Monday Apple Watch deals while the sales last.
Garmin Cyber Monday sale — 11 watch deals I’d buy right now starting from £121
By Jessica Downey published
A heap of Garmin’s top watches are included in the this year's Cyber Monday sales. Here's where to shop them.
Ditch the gym — you only need a pair of dumbbells and these 5 moves to build full-body strength
By Jessica Downey published
Building full-body strength is possible outside the gym. Pick up some dumbbells and try this 5-move routine instead.
Forget sit-ups — you only need these 5 moves to build a stronger core and develop definition in your abs
By Jessica Downey published
Get stuck into this five move bodyweight routine if you want to develop a stronger core and tone your abdominal muscles.
Black Friday running shoe deals: I'm tracking the best sales on Hoka, On, Nike, Asics and more
By Jessica Downey last updated
The Black Friday running shoe deals are here. Check out our live coverage to find epic discounts from brands like On, Nike, Asics, HOKA and more.
Best HIIT workouts for beginners you can do at home with or without weights
By TJ Fink last updated
Get your heart pumping with these beginner HIIT workouts suitable for all levels.
Best running watches of 2024 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.
No, not pull-ups — this 7-move dumbbell routine builds your entire upper body
By Jessica Downey published
Pick up your dumbbells and learn these seven moves if you want to develop upper body muscle.
The best running headphones in 2024
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 phone holders 2024
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.
Best bike lights in 2024: 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.
Best running shoes 2024, according to our testing
By Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best running shoes on the market right now for men and women based on our testing and reviews.
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