5 Minutes with Matthew Coughlan

1. Tell us about yourself...

I live in Singleton in the valley adjacent to Goodwood with my wife and three year old son. I work from home for an Australian company called Atlassian, looking after partner companies. Atlassian builds collaboration software; it’s mission is to unleash the potential in every team and help advance humanity through the power of software - a parallel to the efforts of the people at the Goodwood Health Club helping us (unleashing) the potential of our running team. Outside of work I do a few musical related activities, such as singing in local choirs and playing the piano.

2. Why have you chosen to run the Chichester Half-Marathon? And what will it mean to you to finish it?

I love supporting local events and the Chichester Half Marathon is a great course with the Trundle providing an iconic focus. I am not a particularly fast runner on the flat so enjoy courses, but as a local I am used to the hills and tracks which require a bit of gritting your teeth. I have not run a half marathon for many years, becoming a parent made training for such things a bit more of a challenge so I was delighted to join a team and with it added momentum and fun.

3. What does your normal week of exercise look like?

I try to get my exercise done early in the morning as it sets me up for the day nicely working from home. Running in the South Downs is complemented by the set classes where I participate in a combination of spinning, running, swimming (usually outdoors) and a bit of gym work. My favourite has to be Friday’s hill running where we get to enjoy the most beautiful views in the fresh morning air around the Goodwood Estate. No two weeks are ever the same as there are plenty of wild card exercises thrown into the mix to make it into an excellent peripheral heart action workout. We always come back glowing!

4. With the additional training and support that you are receiving as being part of the team, how have you found the experience? And what’s the best advice you’ve received?

I have been overwhelmed by the support and energy the team has brought which has renewed my enthusiasm not only for running, but many other things. The sense of fun and enjoyment has increased as a factor of sharing the same goal and experience. Having professional trainers look at you with a critical eye has improved many aspects of fitness. Firstly I have learned how to stretch properly and effectively, I have had my running technique reviewed and improved, advice on how to run on trails - up hills and down. One of the most useful pieces of advice has been to look up when running, opening up the chest making it easier to breathe and improving posture. 

5. Finally, for the sake of the ‘sweepstake’ do you have a time that you’re looking to complete the run in?

1 hour 50 would be a great time to finish in.