Leisure Time Habits and Physical Activity Levels in Junior High School Students in the Kepulauan Seribu, Jakarta

Abstract

Physical activity during adolescence plays a vital role in supporting optimal

physical and mental development. This study aimed to assess physical activity levels

and sedentary behavior among junior high school students in Thousand Islands

regency of Jakarta, Indonesia. The research involved 215 students from grades VII

and VIII, consisting of 104 males and 109 females. Physical activity levels were

assessed using a modified version of the International Physical Activity

Questionnaire (IPAQ) tailored for adolescents. The results indicated that the

majority of students on both islands demonstrated moderate to high levels of

physical activity, with a relatively low prevalence of sedentary behavior. These

findings suggest that the students? engagement in active routines is influenced by

the geographic and socio-cultural characteristics of their island environment,

which promote outdoor and communal activities. However, a small portion of

students reported low activity levels, emphasizing the need for context-sensitive

interventions to sustain and enhance active behaviors. This study highlights the

importance of integrating localized health promotion strategies to prevent the long-

term risks of obesity, metabolic disorders, and mental health challenges. The results

serve as a valuable reference for health policymakers and educators in designing

effective physical activity programs for youth in remote and coastal communities.

Keywords: children, jakarta, leisure, physical activity, sedentary