Community-Based Physical Activity Program for Childhood Obesity Prevention in Medan City
Keywords:
Childhood Obesity, Community-Based Program, Physical Activity, Prevention, Medan, IndonesiaAbstract
Background
Childhood obesity is a growing public health concern in urban Indonesia, including Medan City, due to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. Community-based physical activity programs have shown promise in promoting healthy behaviors and reducing obesity risk among children.
Objectives
This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a structured community-based physical activity program in preventing childhood obesity among children aged 8–12 years in Medan City.
Methods
A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was employed, involving 60 children recruited from local community centers. The intervention consisted of three 60-minute sessions per week for eight weeks, incorporating aerobic exercises, skill-based games, and recreational sports. Anthropometric measurements, including body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, were recorded before and after the program. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and effect size calculations to determine the program’s impact.
Results
Significant reductions in BMI (p < 0.01) and waist circumference (p < 0.01) were observed following the intervention. The effect sizes indicated a moderate to strong impact, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in improving children’s physical health.
Conclusion
The community-based physical activity program effectively reduced obesity-related indicators among children in Medan City. These findings underscore the importance of implementing structured, community-focused interventions to promote active lifestyles and prevent childhood obesity in urban settings.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Pedomanta Keliat, Cristeven Tono Situmorang, Fans D.P.O.Z, Satria Agus Situmorang, Risky Cristyan Ginting, Irene Viazza Br Tarigan, Raihan Nurras (Author)
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