PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND POSTURAL STABILITY AMONG INDONESIAN CONSTRUCTION WORKERS: A PRELIMINARY STUDY

Introduction: The higher workloads experienced by construction workers reflect the higher physical demands
of construction work. Prolonged workloads are responsible for up to 60% of chronic fatigue, diseases, and
injuries among construction workers. Individuals need to develop their balance to support physical activity in
order to improve their quality of life. Abnormalities in the balance of construction workers is associated with an
increased risk of falls. Aims: This preliminary study aims to assess the relationship between physical activity
and postural stability among Indonesian construction workers. Methods: A total of 118 healthy male
construction workers without health problems were recruited for this study. Their physical activity levels were
measured using the Baecke questionnaire for work, sports, and leisure time, while their postural balance was
assessed using the one-leg standing test. Results: This study found a significant difference between physical
activity in sports and during leisure time compared to activity at work (F 2.234 = 149.3, p < 0.0001). In addition,
this study found a weak correlation between physical activity at work and postural stability among construction
workers (p = 0.006, r = -2,498). Conclusion: These preliminary findings indicated that construction workers had
higher levels of physical activity at work. However, no correlation was found with postural stability. Further
research is needed to investigate larger sample sizes with similar characteristics.