INTRODUCTION:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a glucose metabolism disorder during pregnancy that can cause serious complications without proper management. Appropriate physical activity improves glycemic control, reduces insulin requirements, and positively affects long-term postpartum metabolic health. However, current studies lack systematic exercise prescription frameworks specifically for GDM patients. We aimed to develop a scientifically-based framework by extracting factors from diverse sources and developing a codebook.
METHODS:
Systematic literature analysis and codebook-based factor extraction methodology were employed. SCI papers, digital healthcare services, educational videos, and professional books were analyzed to identify missing elements in existing guidelines. A structured codebook was developed to classify video content into physician-led and exercise-led interventions. Information from international guidelines (WHO, ACOG, ADA, ACSM) was collected, and exercise components were organized based on measurement units (heart rate, MET, RPE). Technical factors (posture, breathing, safety) were defined with core factors including type, frequency, intensity, and duration. A wearable device data collection system was established, incorporating Talk Test and Borg Scale.
RESULTS:
Core factors for the framework were systematically extracted and structured. The codebook comprised patient profiles (physical information, gestational week, glucose levels), exercise prescription factors (type, intensity, frequency, duration), monitoring factors (physiological indicators, subjective assessment), and safety factors (contraindications, discontinuation criteria). Video analysis confirmed the need for a hybrid model. International guidelines primarily recommend moderate-intensity exercise (50-70% maximum heart rate or Borg Scale 12-14 points). A standardized measurement system was established for wearable devices, including heart rate, exercise intensity, blood glucose change, and subjective intensity. Talk Test and Borg Scale were integrated for intensity evaluation.
CONCLUSION:
A comprehensive framework was developed through codebook-based systematic factor extraction. Multi-source integration enabled derivation of practical yet scientifically-grounded factors. Standardized systems for wearable device data collection and intensity evaluation were established. The framework provides a standardized approach for safe and effective exercise management of GDM patients and serves as a foundation for digital healthcare platform and digital therapeutics development.
This work was supported by the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Korea and the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF–2025S1A5B5A17014552).