Ed Sheeran Shares His Journey: Insights on His 30-Pound Weight Loss and Body Transformation
Ed Sheeran in 2017; Ed Sheeran on the cover of ‘Men’s Health’ in 2025.
Samir Hussein/WireImage; Patrik Giardino / Men’s Health
Ed Sheeran’s Weight Loss Journey: A Transformation Inspired by Fatherhood
Ed Sheeran has successfully shed over 30 pounds since 2020, a significant transformation that was largely motivated by his new role as a father. The singer’s fitness regime began during the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when he made conscious efforts to improve his health following years of struggling with body image issues.
Reflecting on his past, Sheeran remarked, “I would say I lived a pretty unhealthy life from 20 to 30, and even though I was doing professionally well, I wouldn’t say that reflected well into my personal life." In an interview with Men’s Health, Sheeran emphasized the intertwined nature of wellness and mental health, stating, "I do think that wellness is a direct mirror to mental health and the way you feel."
The catalyst for his lifestyle change coincided with a life-altering event – the birth of his first child, Lyra, in August 2020, followed by the arrival of her sister Jupiter in May 2022 with his wife, Cherry Seaborn. Increasing his sense of responsibility, Sheeran desired to "be a responsible dad" and "feel and look good."
Fitness Strategy and Support
Sheeran’s fitness journey kicked off with the guidance of trainer Ali Thomas, with whom he trained over Zoom during the pandemic. This collaboration sparked a genuine enthusiasm for fitness and helped him refine his exercise habits. In early 2025, he expanded his support system by bringing trainer Matt Kendrick on tour, allowing him to maintain his fitness routine amid the demands of his performance schedule.
“It’s been a privilege working with Ed this last year and helping him transform his body and health," Kendrick stated. "To do it whilst on a gruelling world tour and a completely insane daily schedule is testimony to his work and commitment."
By adhering to a consistent workout regime, Sheeran reported that he has lost more than 30 pounds, attributing this achievement to a focus on fundamental exercises suited to his body.
Diverse Workout Regimen
Sheeran’s fitness routine is multifaceted, including activities such as running, weightlifting, Pilates, swimming, and yoga. He expressed, "Variety is the spice of life," acknowledging his initial hesitation toward weight training. "I was always anti-weights, because I didn’t want to be like gym bro, Arnie-type," he confessed, referring to Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, he soon discovered that weightlifting contributes to achieving a lean physique.
Dietary Changes
In addition to exercising, Sheeran has become more mindful of his dietary choices. Speaking with Rolling Stone in March 2023, he described himself as a "real binge eater," but noted that he has shifted these tendencies towards exercise and fatherhood. He revealed that incorporating exercise into his routine naturally diminished his cravings for junk food and excessive alcohol consumption.
"My diet changed based on exercise. It kind of all went hand in hand," he said, highlighting that his lifestyle has evolved alongside his fitness efforts. "I stopped smoking as much. I stopped drinking as much. Your lifestyle shifts because of the gym." Despite this change, Sheeran emphasized moderation, stating, "I haven’t cut anything out of my life. I still drink. I love red wine, I love a nice meal, but it’s not every day."
As Sheeran continues his journey, his transformation serves as an inspiring reminder of how personal motivations, like fatherhood, can ignite significant positive changes in one’s lifestyle.
