The Role of Mobile Applications in Improving Physical Activity and Healthy Lifestyles Among Elementary School Students in South Sulawesi

Abstract

This study examines the effectiveness of mobile applications in promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyles among elementary school students in South Sulawesi, Indonesia. The research employed a quasi-experimental design involving 240 students aged 9-12 years from six elementary schools across Makassar, Gowa, and Bone districts. Participants were divided into experimental and control groups, with the experimental group using a specially designed mobile application called "Sehat Anak" for 12 weeks. Data collection included pre- and post-intervention measurements of physical activity levels using accelerometers, BMI calculations, and lifestyle behavior questionnaires. Results indicated significant improvements in the experimental group: daily step counts increased by 32% (p<0.001), moderate-to-vigorous physical activity time increased by 28 minutes per day (p<0.001), and healthy lifestyle behavior scores improved by 24% (p<0.001). The mobile application demonstrated particular effectiveness in motivating students through gamification elements, peer competitions, and progress tracking features. Qualitative findings revealed high user engagement and positive behavioral changes sustained throughout the intervention period. These findings suggest that well-designed mobile applications can serve as effective tools for promoting physical activity and healthy lifestyle behaviors among Indonesian elementary school students, potentially addressing the growing concern of childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles in the region.