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
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.
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.
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.
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.
The best Nike running shoes in 2024
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.
How to adjust your Strava privacy settings
By Jessica Downey published
Strava is one of the best apps out there for connecting runners — here's our advice on how to stay safe on the app.
Forget pull-ups — you only need 5 moves and a pair of dumbbells to build upper body strength and improve your posture
By Jessica Downey published
Here's a 5-move workout that'll build your upper body without a pull-up bar in sight.
Best women’s running shoes 2024: tried, tested, reviewed
By Jane McGuire last updated
The best women's running shoes we've tested, including designs from Nike, New Balance, Brooks, Saucony and more.
The best running belts 2024
By Hollie Sick last updated
These are the best running belts we've tested that keep important items safe without obstructing your running experience.
No, not planks! Use this 5-minute standing ab workout to build core strength and improve your posture instead
By Jessica Downey published
No planks, no weights, just you, your bodyweight and five minutes to build a stronger core.
Best cycling indoor trainers 2024
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 we've tested so far.
What is the 6-12-25 method and is it good for building muscle?
By Jessica Downey last updated
What is the 6-12-25 method and how can you use it to boost your muscle growth? We spoke to a strength trainer at Nike for the answers.
You only need 2 dumbbells and 30 minutes to develop full-body muscle and build a stronger core
By Jessica Downey published
This half-hour routine targets major muscle groups all over the body, and will help to build and tone muscle.
The best Lululemon leggings 2024: tested and reviewed by us
By Jane McGuire last updated
Looking for the best pair of Lululemon leggings in 2024? We tested multiple Lulu leggings and here's our honest recommendations.
Garmin Lily 2 Active review: a substantial update to Garmin’s most stylish smartwatch
By Jessica Downey published
The Garmin Lily 2 Active marks a substantial update to its predecessor now featuring built-in GPS, more sport tracking features, and new buttons.
Scrap the gym — this dumbbell only workout builds lower body strength with just 6 moves
By Jessica Downey published
Sculpt your glutes and strengthen your lower body with some dumbbells and Kayla Itsines' six move routine.
The best running hats 2024 for men and women
By Jennifer Rizzuto last updated
Arm your head with one of the best running hats from our tried and tested list.
Forget planks — this 5-move workout sculpts your core in only 12 minutes
By Jessica Downey last updated
This plank workout will help build, tone and strengthen your core and abs without any equipment — here's how.
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