The award-winning singer says a health scare, motherhood and a supportive partner inspired her to embrace a healthier lifestyle
By Mapaballo Borotho

South African songstress Judith Sephuma has opened up about the health scare that transformed her relationship with fitness, revealing that it ultimately changed her life for the better.
Speaking to DJ Fresh and Thato on Kaya 959’s Breakfast show on Friday, 3 July 2026, Sephuma said many people assume she’s a fitness fanatic, especially after completing a Hyrox event recently.
However, she insists that’s not the case.
“I’m not a fitness bunny,” she laughed. “I’m simply a woman who loves fitness and loves being fit.”
Sephuma shared that her fitness journey began after a health scare and the birth of her child.
“The reason I ventured into fitness was for health reasons following a health scare, and I was also scared of being big. After having a baby, I just started running and monitoring what I eat. God loved me so much that He also blessed me with a partner who is so big on fitness, which then made it easier for me to walk this journey,” she said.
The Mme Motswadi hitmaker also revealed that she stopped eating meat 13 years ago and gradually helped her family understand and support her lifestyle choices.
“I don’t mind cooking for my family, whatever they like, but I don’t want them to force me to eat what goes against my diet or lifestyle,” she said.
According to Sephuma, her healthier lifestyle has transformed more than just her physical appearance.
She says it has boosted her energy levels, improved her overall health and even enhanced her performances on stage.
“I have so much energy when I’m performing. At my age, I still haven’t experienced menopause, and I pray to God that I never do. I don’t have any hot flushes. That’s also one of the benefits. As a performer, you also have to look good, and fitness has helped me achieve that,” she said.
Beyond her fitness journey, Sephuma also reflected on her music career and shared more personal stories during her candid conversation with DJ Fresh and Thato.
Listen to the full podcast for the complete interview…
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