Bridging the Knowledge–Behavior Gap in Healthy Lifestyles: A Socio-Cultural Perspective from PGMI Students Salatiga

Yulia Ratimiasih; Bertika Kusuma Prastiwi

Authors

Yulia Ratimiasih Universitas PGRI Semarang
Bertika Kusuma Prastiwi Universitas PGRI Semarang

Keywords:

Health Knowledge, Healthy Lifestyle Behavior, Attitude, Physical Education

Abstract

Background of study: Healthy lifestyle practices are an essential component of Physical Education (PJOK), particularly for prospective teachers who are expected to become role models for their students. However, previous studies indicate a discrepancy between health awareness and actual behavior among university students.

Aims and scope of paper: This study aims to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and healthy lifestyle behaviors among students of the Primary School Teacher Education Program (PGMI) at UIN Salatiga.

Methods: A quantitative descriptive approach was employed, involving 112 students who completed a Likert-scale questionnaire measuring health knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, particularly mean scores.

Results: The findings show that students have high levels of health knowledge, particularly regarding the benefits of physical activity (M = 4.74), balanced nutrition (M = 4.70), and awareness of the role of teachers as health role models (M = 4.57). Students also demonstrate positive attitudes toward healthy living. However, the implementation of healthy behaviors remains moderate, especially in routine health check-ups (M = 3.14) and regular exercise habits (M = 3.34), indicating a gap between knowledge, attitudes, and actual practices.

Conclusion: The study concludes that although students possess strong knowledge and positive attitudes, these are not consistently reflected in their behavior. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen behavioral support, self-regulation, and environmental factors within Physical Education learning to promote sustainable healthy lifestyle practices among future teachers.

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