Josh Pyke, the Sydney-born singer-songwriter and children’s book author, has spoken candidly about the challenges of maintaining both physical and mental health amid a demanding career in music. The ARIA and APRA award-winning artist, 48, shared insights ahead of the release of his eighth album, *Kingdom Within*, detailing his approaches to fitness, vocal care, and mental wellbeing while touring.

Pyke, known among family as the “Energiser Bunny,” credits regular exercise as fundamental to his creative process and overall wellbeing. “I try to do a 20km bike ride three or four times a week,” he said. Pyke described a recent cycling loop near his Sydney inner west home that offers a scenic 18km route through restored bushland and along the bay. He prefers riding without headphones, choosing instead to engage with his surroundings and connect with others exercising nearby.

Reflecting on his lifelong drive to stay active, Pyke noted that physical tiredness helps center him mentally. “As an adult, I’m more conscious about why I need exercise—it’s how we’re programmed as humans,” he said.

On the practicalities of touring, Pyke described his evolving approach to vocal health, emphasizing the importance of warming up and hydration. He noted that his voice becomes stronger and more resilient during extended runs of shows, comparing singing to a strenuous workout that demands rest and care. Pyke also outlined his decision to limit alcohol consumption on stage, now restricting himself to one heavily diluted glass of whiskey as a personal ritual. He contrasted this with earlier touring years, when drinking was more prevalent.

Pyke spoke openly about the mental health struggles that have accompanied his career. Earlier this year, he experienced a panic attack during a sold-out show in Frankston, an event he described as “really awful” yet chose to share publicly on social media to reduce stigma. “I didn’t want to be defined by this one experience,” he said, noting the rarity of panic attacks in his lengthy performance history.

He highlighted the importance of discussing mental health candidly, recalling that when he began his career over two decades ago, the topic was seldom addressed. “There was taboo from themselves about feeling ‘faulty’ or ‘weak,’” Pyke said. His openness earned overwhelmingly positive support from fans and peers alike, with messages of empathy and encouragement flooding in.

Addressing ongoing anxiety related to performing after the panic attack, Pyke explained his efforts to confront rather than avoid uncomfortable feelings. “I’m lied to believe that the way through is to accept that these things happen,” he said, describing how he openly addressed the incident with audiences during subsequent shows.

Throughout the interview, Pyke emphasized that managing health—both physical and mental—is an ongoing process. “I’m still a work in progress,” he said.