Erik Zimerman was born in Mexico City and grew up in a close knit Zionist Jewish community. Later moving to the United States, where he was an elite level Gymnast, he studied Biochemistry and History in Syracuse University.

After finishing his studies and working in California for a few years, he moved to Israel. Only being required to do 3 months of IDF service (due to his age at enlisting), he volunteered for a longer service in combat duty in the Paratroopers 202 Battalion, and finally leaving active duty as a commander in the Recon platoon of the Heavy Weapons Company.

Erik continues to be enlisted in the Reserves, and participates in the effort to convey Israel's point of view to the outside world. He enjoys the outdoors, travel, history, writing, current events, and a good glass of scotch.