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 Published
While walking remains a heart-healthy habit, a new study shows that vigorous activity could support your cardiovascular health in a fraction of the time. Here’s what the data actually reveals.

By Jessica Downey Published
Stylish running jackets aren’t easy to come by, which is why I love the Lululemon UV-Protective Cinch-Waist Running Jacket — especially now at 38% off.

By Jessica Downey Published
You don’t need sit-ups or crunches to feel your core work. This all-standing routine helps strengthen your middle, improve balance, and stay joint-friendly at any age.

By Jessica Downey Published
Strengthen your core with these four standing bodyweight exercises. No floor work required.

By Jessica Downey Published
Nike's early Black Friday deals are live with up to 49% off a wide range of sneakers and apparel. I’ve rounded up the picks that are actually worth your money.

By Jessica Downey Published
Save up to 40% on On’s top-rated running shoes and activewear in this early Black Friday sale — but be quick, sizes are already selling out.

By Jessica Downey Published
The Hoka Speedgoat is a stunner of a trail running shoe for runners of all levels and has $32 off right now.

By Jessica Downey Published
If you love a max cushioned running shoe, then you'll love this 25% discount on the Brooks Glycerin Max even more.

By Jessica Downey Published
Score big savings on apparel from On, Yeti, The North Face, Patagonia and other top brands in the early Black Friday sale at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

By Jessica Downey Published
This 15-minute, low-impact workout helps increase your daily step count, build cardio fitness and stimulate your metabolism for better all-day energy.

By Jessica Downey Published
An expert coach shares his three-move recipe for building real core strength.

By Jessica Downey Published
REI’s Fall Sale continues, and there are some excellent deals on jackets, fleeces, running shoes and boots. Here are my top picks.

By Jessica Downey Published
Want stronger abs and better posture? Trainer Sandy Sklar’s dumbbell routine delivers, and it only requires one pair of weights.

By Jessica Downey Published
This Altra trail running jacket is a reliable layer for windy or unpredictable trail days — and right now it’s half price.

By Jessica Downey Published
At 81, Jazzercise founder Judi Sheppard Missett shows how to stay strong and mobile with her go-to exercises and practical advice for movement, nutrition, and rest.

By Jessica Downey Published
Here are three exercises you need to include in your upper body strength training if you want to grow and define your lower pecs, according to a personal trainer.

By Jessica Downey Published
I've hand-picked some of the best early Black Friday deals on New Balance running shoes

By Jessica Downey Published
Work your core muscles, improve your posture and boost your stability with this five-move resistance band routine from fitness trainer Cindy Yu.

By Jessica Downey Published
If you want to build strength and mobility without putting pressure on your joints, this trainer-designed full-body resistance band workout is for you.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
Big names like Patagonia, Helly Hansen, The North Face and Nike are dropping jacket deals at REI — here are the ones I’d actually buy.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
Low impact doesn’t mean low results. Try this gentle chair-based workout to improve your balance, mobility, and lower body strength at any age.

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 according to our testing.

By Jessica Downey Published
One steady walk each day may be more beneficial for your heart than splitting the same steps into shorter bursts.

By Jessica Downey Published
After tackling a Spartan Race untrained, I asked elite athletes how to actually prepare. Here are their five best tips.

By Jessica Downey Last updated
You don’t need a quiet studio or half an hour to meditate. This five-minute mindfulness routine from a sports psychologist will help you refocus your breath, mind and body anywhere in your day.
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