In pregnancy, long sitting was the clearest movement risk signal.

The Pregnancy 24/7 cohort enrolled 500 participants at three U.S. sites; 470 had complete data. Across pregnancy, 86 participants (18.3%) developed a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, including gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. The daily pattern linked to the lowest observed risk had less sitting and more light activity. Estimated risk rose exponentially above 10 hours a day of sedentary time or below 5 hours a day of light activity. 1

The study used wearable monitors across pregnancy and found an association, not an individual exercise prescription. The authors also note that the observed movement ranges may not generalize to every population. 1

If you are pregnant, ask what movement level fits your symptoms and pregnancy. If you are postpartum after gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, keep that history in follow-up and ask how to build activity back into daily life.