Ed Sheeran, the British singer-songwriter beloved for his heartfelt lyrics and acoustic guitar-driven hits, is showing fans a very different side of himself.
In a recent feature for Men’s Health UK, the 34-year-old stripped down to his waist to reveal a toned six-pack, defined chest, and tattooed biceps — a dramatic departure from his usual casual style.
Fitness Becomes a Family Priority
Sheeran credits this physical transformation to a lifestyle overhaul inspired by fatherhood.
Since the birth of his daughters, Lyra and Jupiter, he has swapped fast food for clean eating, embraced regular gym sessions, and incorporated reformer pilates into his routine.
Despite his disciplined approach, he insists he’s still the same pizza-loving, beer-drinking guy at heart.
“Fitness just sort of became something that really added to my life,” Sheeran says.
“I think, underneath it all, I am a pizza-eating, beer-guzzling smoker, but that’s just not my reality as a parent in my thirties.
I think you have to make good decisions.”
A Wake-Up Call from Fatherhood
The catalyst for change came shortly after the birth of Lyra in 2020.
Sheeran recalls a moment when he realized his habits were affecting his ability to be a present dad.
“Lyra woke up 20 minutes after I’d fallen asleep, and I was like, ‘F*ck, I probably shouldn’t drink if I’m going to feel this dreadful.
’ I want to be able to do the night stuff,” he explains.
This newfound sense of responsibility pushed him to adopt a routine that not only supported his health but also enhanced his performance on stage.
“I wanted to feel superhuman on stage,” he admits.
Fitness for Real Life, Not Perfection
Sheeran emphasizes that his approach is relatable, particularly for parents.
He encourages moderation rather than extreme regimens.
“I’m not saying we all need to run marathons… It’s all about moderation,” he says.
Reformer pilates, in particular, has become a gentle yet effective introduction to fitness for him and, potentially, his fans.
Staying Connected to Fans
Even amid this transformation, Sheeran hasn’t lost touch with the fans who have supported him for years.
“I’ve always been close to my fan base… If I was playing pubs and three people turned up, I’d want to speak to them afterwards,” he shares.
He sees his music as a bridge, connecting listeners to memories and milestones in their own lives.
Lessons Learned from a Decade of Touring
Reflecting on his twenties, Sheeran admits he lived a largely unhealthy lifestyle, which took a toll on both his body and mental health.
“Wellness is a direct mirror to mental health… I always felt like sit within myself,” he says.
Observing friends like Stormzy, who maintain rigorous fitness routines for performances, helped him find inspiration.
“I went to play with him in 2021 and he was doing a hundred press-ups before he went on stage — I was staring at him like, ‘What the fck is this about?’”
Balancing Family, Fitness, and Fun
Today, Sheeran has found a balance that works for him: staying healthy and fit while still enjoying the occasional indulgence.
“I still drink. I love red wine, I love a nice meal, but it’s not every day,” he explains.
The shift has allowed him to be more present for his family while maintaining the stamina needed for his demanding music career.
Full Feature Available
Fans eager to read more about Sheeran’s journey from casual lifestyle to fitness enthusiast can check out the full interview in the next issue of Men’s Health UK, available from December 23, or online now on the Men’s Health website.
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