The chilly waters of a 6-degree ice bath serve as the backdrop for a candid exploration into the life of the "Pride of Suffolk," Ed Sheeran. Appearing on Men's Health Icebreakers, the singer-songwriter participates in a deep dive into his thoughts on training and life while enduring a freezing cold plunge. Sheeran admits that his fitness journey was primarily inspired by fatherhood and the athletic lifestyle of his wife, Cherry. Throughout his 20s, he largely spent his time smoking and drinking while his wife went on runs, a contrast that eventually led him to start running with her during the COVID-19 pandemic. This initial step sparked a five-year transformation that eventually expanded to include the gym, yoga, and swimming.
One of the most significant mental hurdles for Sheeran was a long-standing aversion to lifting weights, as he initially feared becoming a bulky "gym bro". However, he eventually realized that weight training actually helps lean out the body and that physique is primarily determined by nutrition and consistent effort. His routine now prioritizes variety, often alternating between leg and arm sessions, running, reformer Pilates, and yoga. This commitment to physical activity naturally altered his relationship with food, shifting his cravings away from fast food and chips toward healthier options like grilled chicken and rice. Despite these changes, Sheeran maintains a philosophy of moderation rather than restriction, choosing to enjoy beer, pizza, and kebabs once a week rather than cutting them out of his life entirely.
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The Men’s Health UK contribution to this profile reveals how these lifestyles changes have directly impacted Sheeran’s professional output and endurance. He notes that the physical demands of his live shows have become significantly easier to manage, stating that he is no longer out of breath and can perform with an energy level he likely could not have sustained a decade ago. To maintain this peak performance while traveling—which he cites as his biggest struggle—Sheeran's brings portable reformer beds, weights, and massage equipment on tour. Recovery has become a non-negotiable part of his routine, particularly as he approaches 34 and feels the need for post-show sports massages to stay in top shape.
Even while training, Sheeran remains tethered to his craft by listening to new mixes of his own albums while running or walking to evaluate his work. When he needs an extra boost of energy, however, he turns to classic records like Dr. Dre’s "2001" or "Get Rich or Die Trying'". During the interview, Sheeran also displayed his deep connection to songwriting by correctly identifying and finishing lyrics to songs he wrote, such as "Cold Water," while jokingly misremembering others.
The session concludes with a traditional head dunk, leaving the artist invigorated and ready to return to a life of constant music and touring. Ultimately, Sheeran's evolution reflects a transition from a sedentary lifestyle to one of disciplined wellness, proving that fitness and professional longevity go hand in hand.
