Exploring Children’s Experiences in Gymnastics Training in A North Jakarta Alley: A Phenomenological Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31851/hon.v9i2.22476Abstract
The widespread phenomenon currently circulating on social media and television news is the gymnastics training activity for children conducted in a narrow alley (gang) in North Jakarta. This activity represents an alternative use of open space, given that North Jakarta is known as one of the areas with highly dense residential settlements, resulting in limited open space available for the community, particularly children. Gymnastics training in this alley setting functions not merely as physical activity or exercise, but also as a space for self-expression, identity formation, and social interaction. On the other hand, this practice also raises various risks and challenges, particularly related to the risk of physical injury caused by inadequate safety standards of the facilities and infrastructure. Despite these risks, the children remain undeterred, consistently practicing with high enthusiasm during their training schedule. Therefore, this study aims to explore the meaning children attach to practicing gymnastics, identify the factors that motivate them to engage in the activity, examine how coaches and children perceive the safety of the existing facilities, and understand the factors driving children's motivation to practice gymnastics in the alleys of North Jakarta. This study employs a qualitative research design with a phenomenological approach, to be conducted on Jalan Pluit Dalam III, RT 7 RW 8, Penjaringan, North Jakarta. Data collection techniques involve triangulation, comprising interviews, observation, and documentation. Data analysis follows the stages of data collection, data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. This research constitutes basic research at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 1, exploring how children experience gymnastics training in the alleys of North Jakarta. The findings obtained serve as an initial foundation for transforming these principles into more complex applied research in the future
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