Ben Shephard has revealed how achieving the best shape of his life at 50 hasn’t just meant discipline in the gym — it’s also stirred up a bit of tension at the dinner table.
The This Morning and Tipping Point presenter posed topless for the cover of Men’s Health UK, showcasing a chiseled six-pack many men decades younger would envy. But while Ben is proud of his transformation, he admits it’s made things tricky at home with wife Annie, whom he’s been married to for 21 years.
“The abs are made in the kitchen,” Ben said, admitting his protein-heavy diet caused a clash with Annie, who usually does most of the cooking. “We had to strike a balance. I get my protein during the day, so in the evenings we can still sit down and enjoy a proper meal together.”
Despite the challenges, Ben is embracing his 50s with confidence and clarity. “I’m more aware now that I’ve probably got less time ahead than behind. That motivates me to make the most of every moment.”
His commitment to fitness is also a way of bonding with his teenage sons, Jack and Sam. “I love training with them. It’s been amazing to show them I can still keep up — maybe even push them a bit,” he added with a smile.
Ben says the new shoot meant more to him than his original Men’s Health cover back in 2012. “I’ve got more lean muscle now, and while my body fat is slightly higher — about 10.5% — I’m 13 years older, so I’ll take that as a win.”
As for the secret behind his physique? It’s not one magical workout. “It’s consistency,” he said. “The real strength is mental — proving to yourself you can stay disciplined. That becomes addictive.”
He’s already thinking ahead too: “I’d love to do another six-pack shoot at 60.”
