Global music superstar Ed Sheeran has candidly revealed the profound lifestyle transformation he undertook after the birth of his first child, driven by a desire to be a present father and a powerhouse performer.
The 3am Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything
In a revealing interview with Men’s Health UK, the 34-year-old singer-songwriter confessed to living an unhealthy existence throughout his twenties, describing his natural inclinations as those of a "pizza-eating, beer-guzzling smoker". However, a pivotal moment arrived just weeks after his eldest daughter, Lyra Antarctica, was born.
Sheeran recounted a night where, after sharing a bottle of wine with a friend, he was abruptly woken from an alcohol-induced sleep by his newborn daughter. The sensation was a stark revelation. "I woke up and I was like, ‘F*ck, I probably shouldn’t drink if I’m going to feel this dreadful,’" he explained. This instant of clarity fused his personal and professional aspirations: "It all came in at the same time of wanting to be a responsible dad, wanting to feel and look good... And then also that feeds into professional life…I wanted to feel superhuman on stage."
From Couch to 10K: Building a Sustainable Routine
The chart-topping artist, who scored his first UK Number 1 single with 'Sing' in June 2014 and made history in 2017 when all 16 tracks from his album 'Divide' charted simultaneously, decided his new roles demanded a new physique. He began a fitness journey during the Covid pandemic, progressing from someone who "never ran more than a kilometre" to completing his first 10K run.
Sheeran, also father to daughter Jupiter Seaborn Sheeran with wife Cherry Seaborn, emphasises moderation over extreme regimes. He has embraced reformer pilates as a gentle introduction to fitness and draws inspiration from fellow performers like Stormzy, but insists his approach is relatable. "I’m not saying we all need to run marathons... It’s all about moderation," he stated, noting he still enjoys red wine and good food occasionally.
A New Chapter for a Superstar Dad
Sheeran believes his story will resonate with many parents entering their thirties. "I do think it’s relatable for parents to suddenly want to be a bit more healthy and follow a bit more of a routine," he reflected. This personal revolution supports his continued professional dominance, having just achieved his ninth Official UK Number 1 album with 'Play' earlier this year.
The singer's journey underscores a shift from the excesses of fame to the focused discipline of family life and enduring stage presence. His interview appears in the next issue of Men’s Health UK, on sale 23 December.
