Camila Mendes, best known for her role as Veronica Lodge on the hit series Riverdale, is leveling up both literally and figuratively. As she gears up for her biggest role yet in the upcoming live-action Masters of the Universe film, Mendes has taken fans behind the scenes of her intense physical training. If her latest TikTok is any indication, she is more than ready to embody the warrior spirit of Teela.

In the now-viral video, Mendes impressively powers through 25 full push-ups. This is a testament to the months of strength and endurance training she has been undergoing. Overlaying the video is a voiceover from motivational speaker and author Mel Robbins, driving home an empowering message about strength, perseverance, and the importance of physical capability, especially for women.

@camimendes

accidentally deleted my first take and had to do it all over again 🫠

♬ original sound – Mel Robbins

Inside the Training: From Stunts to Strength

In an exclusive with People, Mendes shared that she has been fully committed to her training schedule, working out five days a week in preparation for her physically demanding role.

“I’ve always wanted to have a role that I could train for and be physical and just see what my body is capable of,” she said.

Her weekly regimen includes:

• Weightlifting to build muscle and strength
• Stunt coordination to learn combat choreography
• Mobility work for agility and injury prevention
• Conditioning drills for stamina and cardiovascular health

This full-body transformation is not just for show. It is necessary. Teela, a battle-hardened heroine and Captain of the Royal Guard in the Masters of the Universe lore, requires an actor who can move like a warrior and carry the weight of the story.

Mel Robbins’ Voice Adds a Touch of Empowerment

The TikTok video is not just an update on Mendes’ physical progress. It is also a motivational boost for anyone watching. As Mendes knocks out perfect reps, Mel Robbins’ inspiring words play in the background:

“Learn to lift your own body weight. Every woman should be able to do 11 push-ups… Okay, no. Oh my god. But listen, you can build up to that.”

Robbins goes on to share the story of clients who began with limited mobility and high body fat percentages. Eventually, they trained to walk or run over 3 miles and hold a plank for two minutes, all through consistency and belief in themselves.

“Walking, lifting at least twice a week… When you’re comfortable with walking, get your heart rate up really high. And you had a very simple way of doing that. Thirty seconds.”

For fans and followers, the message is clear. Start where you are and keep going. The pairing of Robbins’ voice and Mendes’ performance is a masterstroke. It is encouraging, authentic, and full of heart.

Fans React: “She’s a Real-Life Superhero!”

The reaction online has been overwhelmingly positive. Fans flooded the comments with praise, calling Mendes “a real-life superhero” and “such an inspiration.” The push-up challenge and accompanying audio struck a chord with many women striving for fitness goals of their own.

This is not just about playing a part in a movie. It is about seeing a strong, capable woman show that strength is not just for the screen. Mendes is actively redefining what it means to train like a hero.

What’s Next for Masters of the Universe?

With filming underway and anticipation building, Masters of the Universe is set for a theatrical release on June 5, 2026. Mendes leads a fresh cast in a reimagined take on the iconic 1980s franchise, which centers on the battle between He-Man and the villainous Skeletor.

But all eyes are on Teela. Fierce, loyal, and fearless. If Mendes’ TikTok training video is any indication, she is more than ready to wield that power sword.

Strength, Dedication, and a Whole Lot of Heart

Camila Mendes is showing the world what it looks like to take on a role with full commitment, not just emotionally but physically. Through sweat, discipline, and a little help from Mel Robbins’ wise words, Mendes is emerging as a new kind of action star. She brings strength, humanity, and authenticity to the screen.

For fans of the franchise, fitness lovers, or anyone who loves to see a woman owning her power, this is the glow-up story of the year.