Jessica Downey
Jessica is an experienced fitness writer with a passion for running. Her love for keeping fit and fueling her body with healthy and enjoyable food quite naturally led her to write about all things fitness and health-related. If she isn’t out testing the latest fitness products such as the latest running shoe or yoga mat for reviewing then she can be found writing news and features on the best ways to build strength, active aging, female health, and anything in between. Before then she had a small stint writing in local news, has also written for Runners World UK (print and digital), and gained experience with global content marketing agency, Cedar Communications.
Born and raised in Scotland, Jessica is a massive fan of exercising and keeping active outdoors. When at home she can be found running by the sea, swimming in it, or up a mountain. This continued as she studied and trained to become a PPA-accredited magazine journalist in Wales. And since working and living in London, she splits her time between weight training in the gym, trying new fitness classes, and finding scenic running routes. Jessica enjoys documenting this on her fitness-inspired Instagram page @jessrunshere where she loves engaging with like-minded fitness junkies.
She is a big fan of healthy cooking and loves learning more about this area with expert nutritionists she has met over the years. Jessica is a big advocate for building healthy relationships with food rather than building restrictive attitudes towards it. When she isn’t eating or running she also enjoys practicing yoga in her free time as it helps her to unwind and benefits her performance in other sports.
Latest articles by Jessica Downey
What is a tempo run, what are the benefits and how do you do it — according to a run coach
By Jessica Downey published
A run coach explains what a tempo run is and how you can incorporate it into your training to become a better runner.
Best running apps for 2024
By Jane McGuire last updated
As runners, we all have different goals but there is a running app out there for everyone that will improve your experience pounding the pavements or trails. Here's our favorites.
No, not sit-ups — this 5 move no-equipment workout sculpts and builds muscle in the core
By Jessica Downey published
Trainer Kayla Itsines share the 5 ab building exercises she always returns to.
The best Nike running shoes in 2024
By Nick Harris-fry last updated
Looking into buying a record breaking Nike running shoe or just want a reliable trainer to level up your running journey? We've tested them out for you — here's our top picks.
Best cycling indoor trainers 2024
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 we've tested so far.
No, not push-ups — strength coach shares the benefits of overhead triceps extension and to how master the correct form
By Jessica Downey published
One of the best moves for building muscle in your arms is the overhead triceps extension exercise and all you need to do it is a dumbbell
The best Lululemon leggings 2024: tested and reviewed by us
By Jane McGuire last updated
Looking for the best pair of Lululemon leggings in 2024? We tested multiple Lulu leggings and here's our honest recommendations.
The best running hats 2024 for men and women
By Jennifer Rizzuto last updated
Arm your head with one of the best running hats from our tried and tested list.
Best bone conduction headphones in 2024
By James Frew last updated
We've tested the best bone conduction headphones to help you find a set that'll keep you connected to your favorite audio and help you stay aware of your surroundings.
Forget the gym — build strength all over with this 7-move workout and a set of resistance bands
By Jessica Downey published
Resistance bands make for a perfect minimal equipment workout — use this 7-move banded routine for your next full-body session.
The best running sunglasses 2024
By Jennifer Rizzuto last updated
Protect your eyes from the sun, bright skies and debris with a pair of the best running sunglasses. These are our top picks from testing dozens of pairs on the market.
The best running belts 2024
By Hollie Sick last updated
These are the best running belts we've tested that keep important items safe without obstructing your running experience.
I did a 5-mile hike in the Veja Condor 3 — and it’s my new favorite walking shoe
By Jessica Downey published
The Veja Condor 3 is not only a sustainable and comfortable running shoe but it's also quickly become my go-to walking shoe.
Scrap pull-ups — strengthen and sculpt your shoulder muscles with just 7 moves and a pair of dumbbells
By Jessica Downey published
No pull-ups are involved in this upper body routine but you will need some dumbbells and these seven exercises to strengthen and tone your shoulders.
Short on time? Build core muscle and tone your stomach with this no-equipment ab workout
By Jessica Downey published
This ab routine from Kayla Itsines is quick to complete and requires no equipment — let's build those core muscles!
Best running shoes 2024, according to our testing
By Jessica Downey last updated
These are the best running shoes on the market right now for men and women based on our testing and reviews.
You don't need the gym to build upper body muscle, just 2 dumbbells and these 7 exercises
By Jessica Downey published
You just need a pair of dumbbells to try this seven-move workout and start building a stronger upper body.
The best running headphones in 2024
By Nick Harris-fry last updated
I've tested the best running headphones to help you find a set that'll suit your training, last through even the longest sessions, and help you stay motivated on your run.
Ditch the gym — sculpt your upper body and strengthen your core with this 15-minute dumbbell only workout
By Jessica Downey published
All you need for a quick upper body and core strength building workout is a pair of dumbbells and 15 minutes.
Track running vs road running: Which is better for you?
By Jessica Downey last updated
Track running vs road running is something many runners will ask themselves at some point. We explore the pros and cons of both.
Ditch the gym! This 5-move strength workout sculpts upper body muscle with just a pair of dumbbells
By Jessica Downey last updated
No need for the gym when you can build upper body strength and definition with just a set of dumbbells and this 5 move routine from Kayla Itsines.
No, not push-ups — trainer says you need these 3 exercises for a chest building lower pec workout
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.
Best running watches of 2024
By Jessica Downey last updated
Our runners spent time with dozens of the best running watches to find the best models for you and your training.
Sign up to get the BEST of Tom's Guide direct to your inbox.
Here at Tom’s Guide our expert editors are committed to bringing you the best news, reviews and guides to help you stay informed and ahead of the curve!