THE The relationship between physical fitness, perceived physical competence, and academic achievement among Indonesian elementary school children

Abstract

Rising rates of childhood obesity and lifestyle-related health issues in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, call for innovative health and educational interventions. Despite WHO recommendations for physical activity in children, Indonesia is facing increasing physical inactivity and reduced emphasis on physical education in schools. This study examines the relationships among physical fitness, academic achievement, and perceived physical competence among Indonesian elementary school children to explore potential educational benefits. A fitness assessment was conducted with 82 fourth-grade children from Bali, including assessments of fitness, perceived physical competence, and academic achievement. Results reveal a positive correlation between overall fitness scores and academic achievement. Components such as muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness were associated with improved academic achievement. Additionally, the "feeling of control" in perceived competence was positively correlated with Indonesian and mathematics. These findings indicate that fostering fitness through educational interventions can address both health and academic issues. Emphasizing physical education that enhances children’s perceived physical competence, particularly their feeling of control, may support cognitive and academic development, offering an integrated approach to improving health and educational outcomes in Indonesian schools. Further research is recommended to clarify causal relationships and develop longitudinal evidence for these initiatives.