Ellie Goulding has posted a selfie defending “muscular women”, saying exercise has been her “ultimate escape” in times of need.
The 33-year-old shared a graphic on Twitter showing her flexing a bicep and displaying her toned physique.
Describing herself as shy and self-deprecating, Goulding informed her 6.6m followers that keeping strong and fit is the key to staying motivated.
Goulding has previously discussed her own struggles with anxiety attacks and her usage of the fitness center and fitness to overcome her anxieties.
In some five messages together with the photo, the Starry Eyed singer wrote: “There aren’t many muscular ladies in popular culture
“Nothing I really do in the fitness center is for vanity. If you ask me it is not intimidating or scary to be strong (actually whoever has met me knows I am the most pathetically shy and self-deprecating person).
“When posting gym photos, I only ever wished to show that with the things I’ve overcome, preserving good health and strong has been my ultimate escape.
“I’ve no extraordinary athletic ability and I was crap at sports as a youngster (I was so severely asthmatic I possibly could barely even laugh without coughing) but I’ve pushed myself and used all of the willpower I could muster to stay with it.
Goulding wed Caspar Jopling last August
“As hard as it is to stay motivated, especially right now, I still recommend it passionately for any mental health issues you are facing… even a small walk or jog. Ps – I didn’t do any exercise today because I didn’t want to! Might not tomorrow either.
“Love to all the strong women out there and to those just getting started- I am with you.”
Goulding married art dealer Caspar Jopling in a star-studded ceremony at York Minster last summer, with Hollywood actors and members of the Royal Family in attendance.
Last month, Goulding released Brightest Blue, her first studio album in five years.
She says none of the songs were inspired by her current relationship, telling USA Today: “It’s something I still want to keep sacred for two more years at least.”
