Fitness SECRETS

Hollywood A-lister Eva Mendes tells BAZAAR about being the face of REEBOK, and how staying fit is as EASY as talking a walk

Thhe Cuban-b American star, known to have one of the hottest bodies in Hollywood, has been the face of the sportswear brand for almost a year now. Despite her packed schedule (she’s currently shooting in France for new film Holly Motors),s thee actress says she always finds time to stay fit.

Did you always want to be an actress?

I love acting, but I have other passions. I introduced a design line a couple of years ago. I also debuted my first short film in October 2010, California Romanza, as a part of Glamour’s Reel Moments.

How do you maintain your enviable figure, in your 30s?

Fitness has always been a part of my life. Growing up in L.A., you spend time outside and on the beach. I like to hike, walk, bike or even mountain climb. When I was a teenager, I was naturally curvy when there were a lot of stick-thin girls in L.A. But my mother was a great role model, and taught me to love myself, not try to change myself.

What is your fitness regime?

I like to switch my exercise routine. I also love food—pasta, Cuban food, chocolate—and that motivates me to get out and exercise. I don’t always love working out, and it’s easy for me to make excuses. That’s why I love my Reebok Easytone shoes—they make me get up, get outside and go walking, and they look good too. I work out six times a week, but also love walking and hiking with my dog Hugo. I also go to the gym and do light weights.

How do you get started?

Add fitness into your daily life. Keep off the junk food and get off that couch! To start out, put on a pair of Easytone shoes and get walking—walk instead of driving, take the stairs. The more steps you take, the more you benefit.

What’s it like to be brand ambassador for Reebok?

I’ve been a fan of theirs for while—i used to wear my pink Reebok high tops in junior high. It’s great to be associated with a brand that has such a history in women’s fitness.

Do you follow a special diet?

I start my day with two glasses of warm water with lemon and honey. After my workout, I eat a bowl of fruit and sprouts. I never stuff myself. I also enjoy green tea. I have a small meal every two hours and keep off the sodas and junk.

What fitness routines should you follow in your 20s, 30s, and 40s?

In your 20s and 30s, you can be more experimental with your workout, focus on all body part, push the limits. But in your 40s, your health has to be taken into consideration. You need to see what exercises your body can handle.

Hollywood’s obsession for being thin?

There’s no such thing as the ‘perfect’ Hollywood body. I love my curves— they’re a part of who I am and my heritage. But it’s amazing what you can do with a bit of styling—in my movie Last Night with Keira Knightley and Sam Worthington, the stylists purposely dressed me in conservative clothing to downplay some of my curves.