Sir Rod Stewart, 81, reveals wife Penny has ordered him to cut back on drinking as he shares his secrets to good health ahead of farewell tour: 'I love wine'

Sir Rod Stewart, the iconic British rock singer, is approaching the culmination of his extensive six-decade career with a final arena tour slated for next year. At 81 years old, Stewart is taking deliberate steps to maintain his health and vocal strength, even as he grapples with his longstanding enjoyment of alcohol.

Stewart’s wife of 19 years, Penny Lancaster, has urged him to reduce his alcohol consumption ahead of what he has announced as his definitive farewell to touring. Despite her insistence, the singer admits to a fondness for wine, particularly with his evening meals, which he finds difficult to forgo. He has acknowledged that while he limits himself to a few glasses, he occasionally indulges more freely in cocktails such as apple martinis.

The musician’s approach to health has evolved significantly from his younger days in the music industry. Earlier in his career, Stewart’s performances were often preceded by minimal preparation, and it was common for artists of his era to consume alcohol or substances before going on stage. Today, he adopts a disciplined regimen that includes warming up his voice and a structured workout routine, treating his physical and vocal fitness with the seriousness of an athlete.

Stewart regularly cycles several times a week and swims, drawing inspiration from techniques once shared by Frank Sinatra, who recommended underwater breath-holding exercises to enhance singing stamina. His dedication to preserving his health extends to protective habits such as wearing gloves in public to avoid catching common illnesses that could impair his vocal performance.

Although Stewart acknowledges that he no longer possesses the physical agility of his youth, he maintains that his vocal quality has never been better. This commitment to vocal health is critical as he prepares for a demanding 21-date European tour, beginning in Dublin in late April and concluding in Hannover, Germany, in late July. The itinerary includes significant UK cities, including Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester, and London.

Earlier this year, Stewart faced health challenges that impacted his touring schedule. He required oxygen on stage during a high-altitude performance in Utah, where he was contending with bronchitis. This incident highlighted the physical toll of performing under demanding conditions and led to the cancellation of several concerts. Subsequently, Stewart underwent heart surgery, necessitating a period of recovery and additional show cancellations.

In announcing his final tour, Stewart expressed gratitude for his career and the support of his fans worldwide. He described the upcoming tour as a celebration and a chance to bid farewell to the road that has defined much of his life since he began singing professionally as a teenager.

Throughout his career, Stewart has imparted lessons about responsible drinking to his children, emphasizing the importance of moderation and knowing one's limits to meet daily responsibilities. This personal ethos parallels his own evolving relationship with alcohol and health as he transitions from the vigor of youth to the demands of a seasoned artist concluding his touring journey.

As Stewart embarks on this final chapter, the blend of maintaining physical fitness, managing health concerns, and balancing personal pleasures like wine reflects the complexities of an artist still passionate about performance but mindful of the challenges that come with age and experience. Details about his health routines and tour plans were reported by dailymail.com.