Effects of Traditional Kasti Ball Games on Physical Fitness Among Students Participating in Extracurricular Activities at SD Negeri 88 Palembang

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effect of traditional kasti ball games on improving the physical fitness of students participating in extracurricular activities at SD Negeri 88 Palembang.

Materials and Methods: This study employed a quantitative experimental approach using a one-group pretest–posttest design. The participants consisted of 23 male elementary school students selected through total sampling. The intervention involved structured traditional kasti ball game activities conducted over 16 sessions from April 6 to May 6, 2026. Physical fitness was assessed using the Indonesian Physical Fitness Test (TKJI), which included the 40-meter sprint, sit-up, bent-arm hang/pull-up, and vertical jump tests. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, normality testing, and a paired sample t-test with a significance level of 0.05.

Results: The pretest results indicated that 39.13% of students were classified in the poor category and 60.87% in the very poor category. Following the intervention, 60.87% of students achieved the very good category, while 39.13% reached the good category. The paired sample t-test revealed a statistically significant improvement in physical fitness scores between the pretest and posttest (mean difference = −7.783; t = −88.500; df = 22; p < 0.001).

Conclusions: Traditional kasti ball games significantly improved the physical fitness of elementary school students participating in extracurricular activities. These findings suggest that traditional game-based activities can serve as an enjoyable, culturally relevant, and practical strategy for enhancing students’ physical fitness and promoting active participation in school-based physical activity programs.