Interview with Adventurer Pauline Pichlmair

SWOX Athlete Spotlight: Pauline Pichlmair

Meet Pauline Pichlmair, an adventurous mountain sports enthusiast from Bavaria, Germany, now thriving in Innsbruck, Austria. Growing up with active parents near the mountains, hiking and biking were part of her childhood. But it wasn’t until her twenties that she discovered her true passion for trail running. From the rugged GR20 trails of Corsica to the scenic Nordkette routes in Tirol, Pauline thrives on variety and challenge.

Pauline’s approach to life mirrors her trail runs—dynamic, explorative, and ever-evolving. Whether she’s navigating technical ridges or enjoying quiet mountain moments, she finds inspiration in every experience. Supported by sponsors like Garmin and SWOX, Pauline pushes her limits while staying deeply connected to nature and her adventurous spirit.

SWOX: What first pulled you into the world of mountain sports, and how did trail running steal your heart?

PAULINE: Growing up close to the mountains with active parents, hiking and biking were part of my childhood. But it wasn’t until my twenties that I truly discovered the mountains for myself, especially trail running. The sense of freedom and the connection to nature captivated me.

SWOX: Do you have any favorite trail or training location?

PAULINE: It’s hard to pick just one… I love Tirol, my chosen home, with mountains like Nordkette, Karwendel, and the Stubaier Alpen offering some of the most beautiful trails and views. In summer, I enjoy running or hiking along the Stubaier Höhenweg from Axamer Lizum into the Stubaital. For shorter training sessions, I run along the Nordkette—Innsbruck’s home mountain—via the Goetheweg or up to Seegrube. In autumn or winter, Corsica calls me with its rugged, wild, and untamed trails along the GR20.

SWOX: What’s the thrill you seek most on the trails?

PAULINE: I love running technical ridges and downhills. It forces me to be fully present and focus on the next step, which is both challenging and exhilarating.

SWOX: Do you follow a set pace or let the mountains decide?

PAULINE: I don’t stick to one style. I love the variety trail running offers. Every day my body feels different, so I choose what feels right—whether it’s fast and technical or slow and scenic.

SWOX: What’s the gear you can’t imagine hitting the trails without?

PAULINE: The On Ultra Trailrunning Shoes. I’ve been using them for years, and they’re just perfect for my runs and hikes.

SWOX: Who or what inspires you? What is your passion in life?

PAULINE: It might sound cheesy, but life itself inspires me. The mountains let me experience life in all its facets—pushing my limits, finding challenges, embracing solitude, and feeling deeply connected to nature.

SWOX: Any particular mindset that guides you on these journeys?

PAULINE: I choose to do things that scare me or seem beyond my abilities. It’s about continuously broadening my horizons and challenging my comfort zone.

SWOX: If you could explore anywhere on earth tomorrow, where would you head?

PAULINE: That’s tough… there are so many incredible places, but if I had to choose, I’d say Corsica—it just has it all.

SWOX: If you could pick two athletes (dead or alive) to hike, bike, or run with, who would they be and where would you go?

PAULINE: Honestly, my friends. I love doing sports with my friends who are very ambitious or professional athletes because they push me to become better while just having a great time, and I would choose that over anything every time again.

SWOX: What’s on your horizon for 2025?

PAULINE: I want to spend as much time outside exploring the mountains as possible. I also plan to venture into new sports like climbing, road cycling, and triathlon.

SWOX: Any mantra or wisdom you live by?

PAULINE: If it’s not a “hell yes,” it’s a no.

SWOX: How does SWOX fit into your mountain adventures?

PAULINE: Whether in the oceans or mountains, SWOX is reliable. I love that the ingredients are clean, and I can protect my skin from the sun knowing there are no harsh chemicals involved.

Follow Pauline’s Journey

Stay up-to-date with Pauline’s adventures as she explores breathtaking trails and pushes her limits in mountain sports. From technical ridge runs to new ventures in climbing and triathlon, she continues to inspire with her fearless spirit and love for nature. Catch her on Instagram @paulinelapetite to follow her day-to-day life, training highlights, and the incredible landscapes she calls her playground.