Ed Can Help You Achieve an Optimal State of Physical and Mental Wellbeing
What’s your story?
I had the dream of becoming a professional rugby player, and was able to realise that dream, until I was hit with a string of nasty injuries. Those injuries ended up being one of life’s most valuable teachers, in so many ways. I set up Coastal Fitness as a sole proprietor in my first year out of University, in 2009. It was a dream job that combined my passion for health, fitness, training, and a desire to help people.
It has been 10 years since its inception, and Coastal Fitness now has a facility in North Point, Hong Kong. We work with a range of different people, in the form of 1 on 1, both in-house and remotely, and via group training. I am also the founder of “The Process Programming,” which is Coastal Fitness’ home for online coaching. I am also the show host for our very own Podcast, “LIVE, PERFORM, COMPETE,” and in 2019, I co-founded “Earned Athletic Apparel,” a company created by coaches and athletes that serves the global CrossFit Community.
What excites you most about your industry?
The changes that we are seeing, as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, have created a global shift towards prioritising health and wellness, with a mindset shift away from the importance of body composition and performance, and towards longevity. There is also a desire for human connection, verses computer or app led training, and a desire for community.
What’s your connection to Asia?
Born and raised here, this is home.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
Hong Kong. Despite her challenges of a transient population and extremely high rental fees, I always believed that if you can make it here, you can make it anywhere. I am grateful for the lessons I’ve learned as a business owner.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
There are too many to choose from. But, if I had to pick one, it would be “CHOOSE COURAGE OVER COMFORT.”
Who inspires you?
I have been blessed to work with some inspirational mentors in this industry. Their names are probably less well known, as they are strength and conditioning baised, and I have the greatest respect for them: James Fitzgerald, Charles Poliquin, Max El-hag, and Kyle Ruth.
In general, I’m always inspired by those who have an incredible work ethic and a laser focus on their goals: Jonny Wilkinson and Dan Carter as rugby players, Phil Knight, Elon Musk, and Gary Vaynerchuk, as entrepreneurs. There are so many more names I could share of people who inspire me.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
Just how much people show their true colours in times of challenge and adversity.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
It might seem cliche, but, nothing.
How do you unwind?
I switch off all electronics by 8:30 p.m. I play guitar for 30 minutes, stretch and meditate for 10-15 before going to bed to read a book. I also journal every morning and night via “The Five Minute Journal,” which is another great way to help me unwind and reset.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
I’m not someone who chases “relaxation” when I travel. I prefer adventure and new experiences.
Everyone in business should read this book:
There are so many impactful books. For anyone who deals with people, I suggest, “Nonviolent Communication: Words matter. Find Common Ground with Anyone, Anywhere, at any Time, both Personally and Professionally,” by Marshall B. Rosenberg, PhD.
Shameless plug for your business:
Not a plug, but I resonate deeply with those who are:
- Looking for long term progress without the expense of short term health and performance.
- Want to invest in themselves through seeking to learn and understand.
- Welcome obstacles, and together, look for ways to work around them rather than turning around.
- Want to be a part of a team and a community.
If you aren’t made of the above, then we probably aren’t going to be a good match for one another.
How can people connect with you?
Instagram is a reflection of my thoughts and ideas on coaching, business and life. You can find m here @ed_haynes_coach
Coastal fitness: https://coastalfitnesshk.com/
Process Programming: https://www.theprocessprogramming.com/
LIVE, PERFORM, COMPETE Podcast: https://coastalfitnesshk.com/coastal-fitness/community/podcast/
Earned Athletic Apparel: https://earnedathleticapparel.com/
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This interview is part of the ‘Callum Connects’ series of more than 500 interviews
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder and CEO of MBH Corporation PLC. He is the author of three best-selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’, ‘Agglomerate’ and ‘Entrepreneurial Investing’.
Connect with Callum on Twitter and LinkedIn
Download free copies of his books at www.callumlaing.com
