When and why I started working out: "It was easy for me to keep in shape before the baby came just by running. But after about four or five months of pregnancy, I turned into a couch potato and watched too much TV; the most exercise I got was going to the supermarket. After Zoe was born I realized I had to do something, but I couldn't go to my health club because they didn't allow babies under six months.

"My husband had read about Baby Boot Camp in the newspaper and he encouraged me to go. I liked it 'cause we can share stories about what's going on with our babies, and I don't have to find a baby-sitter — it's something Zoe can do with me.

"We share stories about feedings and everything else. Sure, you can always call your doctor, but there's nothing like talking to another mom about it. You feel like you're not alone out there.

"The Baby Boot Camp instructors help keep me motivated because if I'm doing something in a way that can injure me, she will help me with the form."

My good foods/bad foods: "I eat a lot of fruits and yogurts and veggies and drink fruit juice instead of sodas. My biggest vice is fast food — I love hamburgers — mostly McDonald's and Burger King. Every once in a while I'll do that, but at least now there are healthy foods in the fast-food restaurants, so I can make healthier choices."

My biggest motivator: "Lynn, my Baby Boot Camp instructor, is a big motivator because of the accountability: If I tell her I'm going to be there, then I have to be."

My biggest roadblock to fitness: "In the past it was because of having a new baby. When she was first born, it was difficult to get out of the house and find a place that would let me bring a baby. I'm a member of 24-hour Fitness, but she has to be 6 months old to have child care there."

What saves my sanity: "If I was still at home, sitting on the couch, I'd be a basket case. Getting out and meeting with other adults, especially moms, helps a lot. Also, I'm a shopaholic, and it's fun to shop the malls after my workout."

My next challenge: "The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure on October 24. Otherwise, in my daily routines, I just keep trying to beat my best time during the Nike runs. It can be a race, or I can push Zoe's stroller in the stroller-friendly course."

Advice for those in the same boat: "Try to get out of the house at least once a day and do something. Get back into the swing of fitness as soon as possible."