
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

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.

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.

I ran 30 miles in the Saucony Guide 18 — and it's a super smooth ride without the bulk
By Jessica Downey published
Another comfortable and reliable number from Saucony

Ditch sit-ups! This 10-minute dumbbell workout builds a rock-solid core and perfects your posture
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.

New study reveals that the size of this finger can give you an athletic edge
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.

Strava and Runna launch joint subscription — here’s what you need to know
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.

Build a stronger back and bigger biceps with this 20-minute dumbbell workout — no pull-ups needed
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.

Forget crunches — this personal trainer’s 7-move dumbbell workout builds core strength and improves posture
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.
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