“I love this idea that no, it’s not always easy, but it can be nice” This phrase perfectly sums up Camila Mendes’ relationship with running. As the face of adidas’ new Supernova Rise 2 campaign, she doesn’t see running as an obsession or an obligation, but as something that helps her feel good – physically and mentally. We sat down with her to learn more about what running means to her and how it fits into her daily life.
Every workout ends with a run
Camila follows a structured training routine, especially now as she prepares for a new project. Her approach is clear: she starts with stunt training, moves on to weight training, and always finishes with a run. “I have to end my training with a run or I don’t feel like I’ve really trained,” she told us. Even though she knows it’s not technically true, for her, running is the moment when everything comes together: her heart pounds, her breath deepens, and her body releases tension.
Running as a mental space
But running isn’t just about the physical side. “Mentally, it gives me clarity and I feel accomplished after a run. It’s a release of pent-up energy,” Camila explains. Like many runners, she uses movement to let go of stress and anxiety. “If I have repressed anger about a situation, running is a great place for me to release that feeling and deal with that situation. (…) I kind of like stomp on my problems as I’m running.” A concept that feels familiar to anyone who has ever laced up a pair of running shoes and instantly recognizes Camila as “one of us”.
A real relationship with running
Adidas’ campaign showcases Camila’s real, unfiltered relationship with running. “There is a study that said that 63% of runners say that the best part is when it’s over. And I thought that was so interesting and I related to it. (…) It’s not always easy, but it can be nice. There are ways we can make the experience nice. And I was really glad that adidas was willing to embrace my complex relationship to running”. The message is clear: running doesn’t have to be torture – it can be an opportunity to feel better, without unnecessary pressure. And you can see it clearly in the video, from Camila’s smile at the end of her run.
The adidas Supernova Rise 2: comfort comes first
This is where the adidas Supernova Rise 2 comes in. Designed for runners looking for comfort, support, and smooth transitions, they’re ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy running without worrying about technical details.
Thanks to Dreamstrike+ technology and its re-engineered super-foam, these shoes offer an incredibly soft yet responsive ride. The support rod system, with dense foam rods running from heel to toe, makes every transition smooth and effortless. Plus, the new breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool, even on longer runs.
With a 4% weight reduction compared to the previous version, they strike the perfect balance between comfort, stability, and performance, making running feel more natural and enjoyable.
Camila’s advice for new runners
“Take the pressure off,” Camila advises those looking to start running. “The best way to get into running is by establishing your own relationship to it that isn’t prescribed by, you know, a video you saw online or an article you read, but just doing what feels good to your body. (…) If it’s not enjoyable, you’re never going to do it.” Her advice? Make running a personal, enjoyable habit—not something dictated by external expectations.
Music and running: the perfect playlist
Every runner has their own pre-run ritual, and for Camila, music plays a key role. “I don’t necessarily have a ritual before running but I do love to organize my playlist while I run. Like, I love having playlists. I have a playlist for like every occasion.” She even tweaks her playlist mid-run: “If I’m like, ‘this shouldn’t be in this playlist,’ I’ll take it out and put it somewhere else or something.” A habit many runners can relate to – the right soundtrack can completely transform a run.
Beyond running
Beyond acting, Camila has founded her own production company, Honor Roll, and balances it all with fitness and well-being. “That’s not – oh man, I wish I knew the answer to that! I’m still trying to figure that out,” she says about juggling everything. But she’s finding ways to make it work, adapting to what suits her best.
The adidas campaign featuring Camila Mendes isn’t just about shoes – it’s about an approach to running that prioritizes well-being and authenticity. Because running isn’t just about the miles; it’s about how it makes you feel.
