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RESEARCH PRODUCT

Physical activity during pregnancy through postpartum: A study of predictive and explanatory factors in a multi-ethnic population

subject

description

The study objectives were to (a) describe steps and moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) from pregnancy and postpartum across ethnic groups, (b) test prognostic factors for early identification of pregnant women at risk of non-compliance with the guideline (=150 MVPA minutes/week), and (c) to explore the association between access to recreational areas and MVPA. Data originated from the Stork-Groruddalen Cohort Study (n=823). MVPA was monitored with a multi-sensor device in gestational week (GW) 15 and 28 and three months postpartum. Country of birth defined ethnicity. Data on access to recreational areas was obtained by geographic information systems and self-report. MVPA declined between GW 15 and 28, by which only 25% complied with the guideline. Four factors predicted guideline non-compliance (ethnic minority background, high body fat percentage, at least two previous births and few physically active friends). MVPA increased significantly for Western women between GW 28 and postpartum, while the increase was modest for ethnic minority women. Women with good access to recreational areas accumulated more MVPA minutes/day than women with limited access.