Elton John opens up about the emotional reason behind his recent lifestyle shake-up

Sir Elton John has opened up about the motivations behind his decision to live a healthier lifestyle.

Speaking on British footballer Troy Deeney's podcast Deeney Talks, the 74-year-old singer proclaimed he's now the fittest he's ever been after spending the past year focusing on getting into shape and staying healthy.

He said: "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.

"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."

The 'Rocket Man' singer - who has been isolating at his home in Windsor with his partner David Furnish and their sons - also spoke about being diabetic, saying: "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.

"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."

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.