Author Fachrudin Ali (Senior Public Relations Officer, BKPK)
The results of the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) show that 37,4% of the Indonesian population aged 10 years and above do not engage in enough physical activity, while 62,6% do enough physical activity.
The same survey also revealed four main reasons why Indonesians don't engage in adequate physical activity: 48,7% cited lack of time, 32,6% laziness, 19,5% cited advanced age, and 9,8% felt they lacked activity partners.
These figures show that active living behavior has not yet become a fully part of people's daily lives, even amidst increasing awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle.
Factors Triggering Low Activity
Based on the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) and various recent studies, several dominant factors explain the low level of physical activity participation in Indonesia. First, time constraints are the most frequently cited reason. Many people work long hours and face the pressures of high mobility in urban areas, leaving them with little time for exercise.
Second, low motivation. Around a third of respondents admitted to being lazy, indicating behavioral issues and a lack of awareness of the importance of health (Octania et al., 2023).
Third, age and physical condition are factors. Elderly people tend to reduce their activity levels due to a perceived inability to do so, even though light activities like walking are actually important for heart and joint function.
Fourth, lack of social support and environmental amenities. Not all areas have safe sidewalks, public parks, or adequate bike paths. A lack of activity partners is also a significant psychological barrier (Andriyani et al., 2021).
Research in Yogyakarta found that barriers to physical activity are often caused by a combination of internal factors, such as low motivation, and external factors, such as an unsupportive environment (Octania et al., 2023). This reinforces the finding that interventions to increase physical activity need to be implemented holistically—not simply relying on individual awareness.
Why is Physical Activity Important?
Physical activity is not limited to formal sports such as running or cycling, but includes any form of bodily movement that increases energy expenditure above resting conditions. World Health Organization (WHO, 2020) emphasized that “Doing some physical activity is better than doing nothing".
WHO global guidelines recommend that adults aged 18–64 engage in at least 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week, while children and adolescents are encouraged to be physically active for at least 60 minutes per day. Regular activity has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity (WHO, 2020).
However, in Indonesia, time constraints, the convenience of technology, and increased sedentary activities such as prolonged sitting in front of a screen contribute to lower daily activity levels. A study by Rivan Virlando Suryadinata and Devitya Angielevi Sukarno (2019) showed that decreased physical activity levels can increase the risk of obesity in adulthood.
Thus, although nutrition is a major focus of health policy, the problem of low physical activity remains a serious threat to people's productivity and quality of life.
Practical Action Recommendations for the Community
Low levels of physical activity can be addressed with realistic strategies that can be implemented in everyday life. First, set aside dedicated time for movement. Simple activities like walking to the grocery store, taking a light bike ride, or using the stairs can help improve fitness without the need for expensive equipment.
Second, involve family, friends, or join a community. There are many community groups available today, for example, through WhatsApp Group (WAG) and engage in interesting activities together. Social support has been shown to be a crucial factor in maintaining consistent activity. Andriyani et al. (2021) found that adolescents with family support were more consistent in engaging in physical activity during the pandemic.
Third, make physical activity fun. Principle enjoyable movement" helps someone maintain a routine. It can start with hobbies like dancing, yoga, or light outdoor play.
Fourth, optimize available public facilities. Local governments can play a significant role in providing green open spaces and safe pedestrian paths to encourage people to move more. Finally, develop active behavior campaigns in workplaces and schools, including promoting active breaks and group exercise programs.
Closing Event
The findings of the 2023 SKI serve as a reminder that Indonesia's public health challenges extend beyond nutrition and infectious diseases, but also to increasingly sedentary daily behavior. If left unaddressed, low physical activity will exacerbate the burden of non-communicable diseases and reduce national productivity.
Health is not just a medical matter, but rather the result of well-maintained lifestyle habits. Health can be achieved easily, affordably, and simply. With small, consistent steps—walking, cycling, or simply stretching between work—people can build a culture of active living. From these small steps, great hope emerges: a healthier and fitter Indonesia.
Finally, regularly check your health at a healthcare facility for early detection of disease. Take advantage of free health checks. (Editor: Vita Tewu)
