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

By Jessica Downey Last updated
The best ab workouts don't need to happen on the floor. Try this all-standing dumbbell workout instead and see for yourself.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
If your ring finger’s longer than your index, you might be better built for distance. Here's what the science has to say.

By Jessica Downey Published
This new combined subscription gives you expert coaching alongside Strava’s performance insights and route discovery, all in a single annual plan.

By Jessica Downey Published
Grab some dumbbells and get ready to let trainer Britany Williams lead you through a ripper of a back and biceps workout. You only need 20 minutes.

By Jessica Downey Published
Ab workouts don't need to involve lots of equipment; you can gain some serious results with just a dumbbell and the right moves. Here's a trainer's recommended routine to get you started.

By Jessica Downey Published
You can be gentle on your joints while building full-body strength with a light pair of dumbbells and this Pilates-inspired workout.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
A personal trainer shares five essential moves if you're 60+ and want to improve strength using just one chair.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
I've been looking for a short, equipment-free workout to take on vacation with me, and I think this 15-minute bodyweight routine from Kayla Itsines could be the answer.

By Jessica Downey Published
All you need is 10 minutes to try this ab-building workout from trainer Britany Williams.

By Jessica Downey Published
Forest bathing is the act of spending time in the outdoors and is supposedly an effective remedy for easing back pain. We take a look at what the science says.

By Jessica Downey Published
Curious if this ‘pretty’ abs and arms workout lived up to the name, I gave the 12-minute routine a try.

By Jessica Downey Published
One bin bag and one pair of running shoes leads a surprisingly satisfying Saturday. Here's my experience trying out plogging.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
I never thought stepping up my walking pace would stick, but it turned out to be a simple way to add more movement to my day.

By Jessica Downey Published
Back pain affects millions, but scientists say this accessible, low-cost habit could help prevent it from coming back.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
Running 13.1 miles in brutal heat was the perfect test for the Smith Motive sunglasses. Here’s what impressed me — and what didn’t.

By Jessica Downey Published
This no-floor dumbbell routine challenges your core and arms in just eight standing moves, perfect for small spaces and busy schedules.

By Jessica Downey Published
A personal trainer shares the routine that helps you stay strong, balanced and injury-free.

By Jessica Downey Published
It’s free, it’s right in front of you, and it might just be the key to aging well — here’s why taking the stairs matters more than you think.

By Jessica Downey Published
Launched as a max-cushion, high-performance shoe, I’ve been putting the Cloudmonster Hyper through its paces. Six months on, this is my honest verdict.

By Jessica Downey Published
I incorporated habit stacking into my routine to increase my daily step count, and it's been a game-changer. Here's how I did it.

By Jessica Downey Published
Reports suggest Garmin’s upcoming band will track sleep and recovery with a minimalist design and no screen.

By Jessica Downey Published
From understanding fit and cuff height to picking the right materials and soles, here's what you need to know before buying hiking boots.

By Jessica Downey Published
This five-move hip mobility routine from a physical therapist promises to ease tension and improve flexibility. I tried it — here’s what I found.
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