Exploring the relationship between perceived social support and pregnant women’s physical activity behavior: a chain-mediated effect test

Perceived social support predicts pregnant women's physical activity behavior through both the independent mediating effects of physical activity health beliefs and self-efficacy, as well as their sequential chain mediation effect. The research delineates the association patterns and mechanistic pathways, advancing the evidence base regarding the impact of perceived social support on gestational physical activity behaviors. It provides actionable insights for healthcare administrators to optimize prenatal physical activity support systems.