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

Hate sit-ups? Study shows this is the only activity you need to strengthen your core
By Jessica Downey published
Think paddle boarding is just floating around? This study says it’s basically core day on water.

How running for 75 minutes a week could help you live longer — and feel younger
By Jessica Downey published
Just 10 minutes of running a day might turn back your biological clock by 12 years, according to new research.

Forget hour-long workouts — new study says this 5-minute routine improves your strength and mental health
By Jessica Downey published
Sedentary adults saw significant gains in fitness and mood after just 4 weeks of this 5-minute workout.

Brooks Ghost Max 2 is the comfy daily sneaker I recommend — and it's 27% off right now
By Jessica Downey published
Experience all-day comfort and cushioning with the Brooks Ghost Max 2, now available at a great discount.

No, not crunches — trainer says these 5 bodyweight moves are the secret to building stronger abs
By Jessica Downey published
This 30-minute, no-equipment routine uses five trainer-recommended moves to build core strength and define your abs.

Fibermaxxing is the latest gut health trend, but does it really work?
By Jessica Downey published
The fibermaxxing trend is gaining momentum, but are its health claims too good to be true

I hiked through rain, wind and fog in the Rab Firewall Mountain Waterproof Jacket — here's my verdict
By Jessica Downey published
I’m not after jackets that just look waterproof — I need full protection to stay dry and mountain-ready. That’s why the Rab Firewall Mountain Waterproof Jacket is my new go-to shell.

Forget the sauna — soaking in a hot tub could be better for your health, says new study
By Jessica Downey published
Science says hot tubs might be the real health heroes. They’re not just for relaxing — read on to find out why.

These Saucony running shoes saved my legs in marathon training — and right now they’re $31 off at Amazon
By Jessica Downey published
The Saucony Hurricane 24 is a cushioned, stable shoe that feels great underfoot — and it’s now 20% off at Amazon.

Do ginger shots actually work? I took one every day for a week to find out
By Jessica Downey published
Can a shot of spicy ginger really boost your health, or is it all just hype? I put it to the test for seven days.

New research suggests this Japanese-inspired diet could boost your mental health
By Jessica Downey published
You don’t need to overhaul your diet — small swaps inspired by traditional Japanese eating could make a real difference to your mental health.

I swapped the StairMaster for hill running — here’s what it did for my mind and body
By Jessica Downey published
Running real hills instead of staying in the gym gave my cardio a new kind of burn. Here's how my body responded after one week.

Forget tight hips — try these 5 mobility moves to unlock stiff hips and build stronger glutes
By Jessica Downey published
Fed up of tight hips? Improve on flexibility, mobilise your joints and build strength in your glutes with this trainer's five-move routine.

New study says these workouts don't just build strength — they improve your sleep, too
By Jessica Downey published
This recent study ranks the best types of exercise for beating insomnia — and the top performer probably isn’t what you’d expect.

This 4-2-1 workout split is going viral on TikTok — here’s how it works
By Jessica Downey published
Would you try the 4-2-1 workout split that combines muscle-building, fat-burning, and recovery into one weekly plan? Here's what you need to know.

Ditch crunches — try these 5 kettlebell exercises instead to sculpt your abs, strengthen your core and improve balance
By Jessica Downey published
If you want stronger abs and better mobility, these five kettlebell moves are all you need. Think less crunches, more functional strength that actually carries over to daily life.

Don’t own a smartwatch? Strava’s app update just made phone tracking way better
By Jessica Downey published
Think you need a fancy watch to track your training? Strava’s new update might change your mind. Here’s what the new in-app tracking adds for runners and cyclists.

Best Lululemon leggings 2025: 9 pairs tested and reviewed
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.

Forget your age — new study reveals it’s never too late to add more healthy years to your life
By Jessica Downey published
The secret lies in consistency. New evidence shows that being active regularly, even later in life, can help you live better and longer.

Last hours! The Garmin watch I love is 39% off for Prime Day — grab it before it’s gone
By Jessica Downey published
Save 39% on my favorite Garmin GPS smartwatch — perfect for running, training and everyday wear. Prime Day ends in hours, so act fast!

Last chance! Prime Day knocks up to 49% off Nike — 11 apparel and shoe deals I'd shop before they're gone
By Jessica Downey published
Fret not if you’re still looking to bag some banging Prime Day deals on sportswear — I’ve found a tasty lineup of Nike apparel and shoe deals still going, starting from just $18.

I hate how expensive Oakleys are — which is why I’m snapping up this 43% Prime Day deal
By Jessica Downey published
Oakleys are great for running, cycling, and hiking, but they rarely come cheap. This Prime Day deal gets you top-quality sport sunglasses for 43% less.

The viral Free People running shorts are 24% off for Prime Day — this is the lowest price I’ve seen them
By Jessica Downey published
Grab a pair of Free People's Get Your Flirt On Shorts for just $30!
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