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Well here we are one month after the launch of my new column and I would like to say I was a bit surprised but also humbled by the response I received from so many readers.

Because I am a mother myself and I can relate to so many, it still is refreshing to see moms in the community networking and trying their best to lead a healthy lifestyle.

Here is a story I would like to share.

A new mom wrote to tell me that because of the lack of information she was given by her doctor, and a bit of fear, she stopped exercising during the second trimester of her pregnancy.

Now she had always been physically active prior to conceiving, but she is now having a psychological battle with her lack of physical fitness.

So here's the deal.

Following your doctor's OK and as long as you are already exercising regularly, it is perfectly safe to continue with your regular exercise routine upon conception.

Some women, however, feel so nauseous during their first trimester that they abstain from exercising, so starting back during your second trimester is fine as well. You just don't want to begin a new exercise program past 28 weeks gestation.

There are also specific heart-rate guidelines for exercising during pregnancy for the average woman, but may require modifications based on the individual's fitness level pre-pregnancy.

For me, the general rule is that you should be able to carry on a verbal conversation while exercising (talk test) and use the BORG scale (rate of perceived exertion).

All of this information I learned when I received my certification in pre- and post-natal fitness. What a difference it made during my second pregnancy!

As far as getting back into shape postpartum, all you can be sure of is you will get it back - but it takes time.

Here are a few basic rules of starting back into an exercise routine.

Proper amount of sleep (ya right!)

Proper nutrition for energy requirements

Additional calories needed for breastfeeding (no dieting)

Start slow and build up to three to five times a week for 20 to 40 minutes

Exercise must be consistent to build strength

One hour of rest for every hour of exercise

A lot of core exercises for abdominals

If C-section, slow progressions and modifications required

Although there are general guidelines, there are also variations.

As every woman is different, so is every pregnancy and women tend to respond to each pregnancy differently as well.

As long as there are no medical concerns and you have received your doctors approval, you will find exercising during your pregnancy rewarding both physically and mentally.