As we head into National Walking Day on Wednesday, April 1, a new study from the American Heart Association offers a timely reminder: when it comes to health, especially during pregnancy, how we move throughout the day matters just as much as intentional exercise.
The research, presented at the American Heart Association’s 2026 EPI|Lifestyle Scientific Sessions, followed nearly 500 pregnant women and examined how daily activity patterns, not just workouts, impact health outcomes. What researchers found was both simple and powerful: less sitting and more consistent movement were linked to significantly lower risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including conditions like preeclampsia.
Women who spent less time sedentary (around 8 hours per day) and more time in light activity (over 7 hours per day) saw about a 30% reduction in risk. And importantly, this “activity” wasn’t intense workouts, it was everyday movement like walking, standing, and simply staying active throughout the day.
Rethinking what “being active” really means
For many of us, physical activity can feel like an all-or-nothing commitment, something that requires a gym, a class, or a full schedule shift. But this study reinforces a different perspective: movement is not just an event, it’s a pattern.
Instead of focusing only on structured exercise, this research highlights the value of:
- Breaking up long periods of sitting
- Incorporating light movement throughout the day
- Prioritizing consistency over intensity
This is especially important during pregnancy, when safe, accessible forms of activity, like walking, can play a meaningful role in supporting both maternal and infant health.
Why this matters for maternal health
Hypertensive disorders affect between 5-10% of pregnancies and remain a leading cause of complications for mothers and babies. But beyond the numbers, this issue connects to broader conversations we’re already having in public health: access, environment, and equity.
Because staying active isn’t just an individual choice, it’s shaped by what’s available around us.
Do communities have sidewalks and safe walking spaces? Are workplaces designed in ways that encourage movement or prolonged sitting? Do families have the time, resources, and support to prioritize daily activities?
These are the kinds of structural questions that sit at the intersection of maternal health, early childhood outcomes, and the physical environments we build.
A mixed race young woman enjoys an exercise walk during the final weeks of her pregnancy, enjoying the summer sun and fresh air. A healthy active lifestyle for her and her unborn baby.
Why National Walking Day matters right now
This is what makes National Walking Day more than just a moment, it’s an opportunity.
Walking remains one of the most accessible, low-cost ways to stay active. It doesn’t require special equipment, and for many, it can be easily incorporated into daily routines. More importantly, it’s a way to interrupt sedentary patterns, which this new research shows may be just as important as exercise itself.
Whether it’s a quick walk between meetings, a stroll with your family, or simply choosing to stand and move more throughout the day, these small shifts can add up to meaningful health benefits over time.
Take a step forward
As you think about how to participate on Wednesday, consider simple ways to build more movement into your day:
- Take a short walk during your lunch break
- Turn a meeting into a walking meeting
- Set reminders to stand and stretch throughout the day
- Invite a friend, coworker, or family member to join you
Because improving health outcomes doesn’t always start with a major change, it often starts with small, consistent steps.
Join NCIT for National Walking Day
The National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT) invites you to get moving with us on Wednesday, April 1 for National Walking Day. Whether you’re walking solo, with your little ones, or alongside your community, every step you take is part of a larger movement toward healthier families and stronger beginnings.
We want to see your steps in action! Tag NCIT in your photos and share how you’re celebrating National Walking Day in your community. Use #NationalWalkingDay and tag us on social media: @NCITorg on Instagram and X, and National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Let’s build healthier habits together; one step, one story, and one community at a time.
Additional Resources
- American Heart Association: More activity and less sitting may reduce risk of hypertensive disorders in pregnancy
https://newsroom.heart.org/news/more-activity-and-less-sitting-may-reduce-risk-of-hypertensive-disorders-in-pregnancy - American Heart Association: Getting Active to Control High Blood Pressure
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/changes-you-can-make-to-manage-high-blood-pressure/getting-active-to-control-high-blood-pressure - American Heart Association: National Walking Day
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/walking/national-walking-day
Laura Coleman is the Advocacy Media Relations Manager for Voices for Healthy Kids, an initiative of the American Heart Association, and the National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT). She leads media strategy across campaigns nationwide and helps equip Voices for Healthy Kids grantees and NCIT members with the skills they need to build strong, strategic relationships with reporters to advance public policy. Laura holds an M.S. in Strategic Communication from Louisiana State University, a B.S. in Mass Communication from Jackson State University, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Global Health Equity at Meharry Medical College. Off the clock, she’s with family, friends, and her fur baby, Eve.
