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’ve just tried Strava Premium — and this is the feature I’d pay for twice
By Jessica Downey published
Strava Premium’s Suggested Routes creates personalized routes based on exactly where you are and the distance or terrain you want.

I cancelled my gym membership two months ago — here’s how I’m staying just as fit at home
By Jessica Downey published
Two months after quitting the gym, and I feel great. Here’s what I gained from the switch.

Runners, I swear by this Nathan Sports hydration vest — and right now it’s on sale
By Jessica Downey published
This Nathan Sports running vest is super minimal and comfortable, and right now it's on sale at Amazon for 14% less.

I tried slow running every day for 2 weeks — and now I'm hooked
By Jessica Downey last updated
Slow running might sound counterintuitive, but over two weeks, it helped improve my endurance, recovery, and relationship with running.

There's no such thing as the best running shoes — but here are our top picks, tested by 3 runners
By Nick Harris-Fry, Jane McGuire, Jessica Downey last updated
We've tested hundreds of running shoes and selected our favorites to help make your runs more comfortable and enjoyable.

Zendaya’s first On sneaker is here, and it’s built on some of the brand’s key running shoe tech
By Jessica Downey published
Be Every You marks Zendaya’s newest collection with On, including her debut sneaker design.

Lose fat fast — I tried this 12-minute workout, and here are my results
By Jessica Downey last updated
Can a 12-minute workout really boost fitness, torch fat, and improve metabolic health? I gave REHIT a go to find out if it lives up to the hype.

Forget fad diets — new study says cutting processed food may be the real key to feeling your best
By Jessica Downey published
Here’s an easy switch that helped people see better results and feel more energized in just eight weeks.

Sit-ups, shuttle runs, and pull-ups? Trump revives the presidential fitness test
By Jessica Downey published
Trump is bringing back the presidential fitness test, reintroducing sit-ups, shuttle runs, and pull-ups to schools. Here’s what we know so far about the reboot.

Watch out Apple Watch — Garmin is seeing a huge surge of interest right now
By Jessica Downey published
New launches like the Venu X1 and Index Sleep Monitor are helping Garmin reach a wider audience.

The best running belts 2025
By Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best running belts we've tested that keep important items safe without obstructing your running experience.

Stuck with stiff joints? This 5-move kettlebell trainer workout is your range-of-motion reset
By Jessica Downey published
This routine combines mobility moves and strength-building exercises to improve your range of motion, boost joint health, and make everyday movement feel easier and stronger.

Want to protect your brain as you age? Science says to start with this routine
By Jessica Downey published
Move more, eat better, stay social and don’t go it alone. Science says your brain will thank you.

One of Asics' most comfortable running sneakers is now $40 cheaper — here’s why I recommend it
By Jessica Downey last updated
You'll find plenty of support and comfort in the Asics Gel-Kayano 31 and right now you can swipe up a pair for $40 less at Amazon.

This mobility test takes just seconds — and it could predict how well you’ll age
By Jessica Downey published
A new study suggests that people who can sit and stand from the floor without using their hands are more likely to live longer than those who can't. Here's how the test works.

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.
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