Elton John reveals emotional reason behind lifestyle shake-up

Sir Elton John attends the 29th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards Viewing Party. Photo / Getty Images

Elton John has revealed that he embarked on a lifestyle overhaul during the UK's coronavirus lockdown.

Speaking on British footballer Troy Deeney's podcast Deeney talks, the singer proclaimed he's now the fittest he's ever been after spending the past year focusing on getting into shape and staying healthy.

The 74-year-old star said "During lockdown, I've really gotten fit, I walk in the pool, I play tennis. I just wanted to come out the other side not overweight and feeling that when I go back on tour I'm gonna be the fittest I've ever been, because a lot of my shame comes from the way I put on weight."

Elton John attends MusiCares: Music On A Mission Online Celebration and Fundraiser. Photo / Getty Images

The Rocket Man singer who has been isolating at his home in Windsor with his partner David Furnish and their two children, also spoke about being diabetic, "I'm a semi-diabetic. I'm Type B diabetic so I have to watch what I eat.

"I'm at probably my fittest I've been in a long time and I feel great. I've really put pedal to the metal, I walk in the swimming pool and I've walked 42 miles since the beginning of the year sideways."

Speaking on the podcast, John was open and honest about his relationship with his weight.

"I've always had a weight issue. I've always had a body conscious image of myself not being very good and I think it takes a long time for you to come to terms with that."

He also spoke about his motivations behind the decision to live a healthier lifestyle.

"I've got two kids that I want to be around for as much as possible, so in that case Elton get yourself together, do what you're told and you'll see the benefits of it."

After touring in Australia and New Zealand in early 2020, John was forced to postpone the rest of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour due to coronavirus restrictions. The rest of the tour has been rescheduled for late 2021/2022,

Elton also shared his thoughts on whether he'll carry on touring into his later years.

"I really can't do that much more … I've done it all with this farewell tour," he said.

Elton John says, 'I'm the fittest I've ever been.' Photo / News Corp Australia

"By the time I finish the tour I'll be 76, your priorities change and you think do I really want to go gallivanting around the world? What's more important my kids, my husband, my life, my family?"

It was during his shows in New Zealand early last year when the singer had to cut short his performance mid-show. He promises to return to complete the NZ concerts in 2022.

The singer posted on social media at the time, "I was diagnosed with walking pneumonia earlier today, but I was determined to give you the best show humanly possible.

"I played and sang my heart out, until my voice could sing no more. I'm disappointed, deeply upset and sorry. I gave it all I had."