PM360 recently spoke to Erin Federman, Global Brand Director/Team Lead, Immunology Biosimilars at Boehringer Ingelheim, about why she loves to run.
PM360: I hear you are a runner. Just how often do you like to run?
I don’t ever intend to be at competitive level, but I try to run three to five times a week. I had to slow things down when I hurt my ankle a few years ago, but I’ve been back to running regularly now for the past five months.
What makes you so passionate about running?
I love the way it makes me feel. Of course, those first few minutes can be tough, especially if I’ve gotten off my schedule. But it is an activity that both appeals to my competitive spirit and keeps me healthy.
Some runners like the activity as a way to clear the head. Do you find that as well?
My job is very fast paced and consumes a lot of “mindspace.” I love running because it lets me completely tune out all the pressures of everyday life and just focus on my body and my breathing. I also love the sense of instant gratification—whether I run 3K, 5K, 10K, or further—I always feel accomplished and proud at the end.
How has your approach to running evolved over the years?
I have flitted between various forms of exercise throughout my life—although when I did push myself to run, I always enjoyed it. Now I am in a place where it truly has become a part of who I am and how I live my life. It isn’t something to be done to lose weight or to prepare for a race. It’s something to be done for myself.
Did anyone inspire you to get into running?
Yes, a very close friend of mine, Wendi, began running about two years ago. At first I thought she was a bit crazy, but then I could see how fulfilling and happy it made her. She knows my Type A personality and suggested that I give it a try. She knows exactly how to push me to step out of my comfort zone. Now I am signed up for the Berlin Half-Marathon in April of next year!
Is there anything else you enjoy doing in your spare time?
I love to travel and explore new places. I’m really looking forward to my next trip, which is to Costa Rica—and I’ve already planned a long holiday in Thailand next February.
Are there any hobbies or interests you haven’t gotten to yet, but would still like to?
I’m a lifelong learner. I’d love to make the time to go back to school. I hold a BA and an MBA, but I want to explore graduate level studies in psychology as well as organizational development. I also have a closet passion for design and would love to learn more about that as well.
