The Effect of the Traditional Tebe Dance on Lower Limb and Thigh Muscle Strength among Students of SDI Besterin in Malaka Regency

Abstract

Integrating local culture into physical education offers an effective strategy to improve students’ physical fitness while preserving cultural heritage. The traditional Tebe Dance from Timor involves rhythmic foot stamping, light jumping, and dynamic movements that actively engage the lower limb and thigh muscles, which are essential for children’s motor development. This study aimed to examine the effect of traditional Tebe dance training on lower limb and thigh muscle strength among elementary school students. A quasi-experimental one-group pretest–posttest design was employed involving 25 students aged 9–12 years at SDI Besterin, Malaka Regency. Participants followed a structured Tebe dance training program for two months. Muscle strength, endurance, speed, and recovery were measured using the Wall Sit Test, Vertical Jump Test, 30-meter Sprint Test, and Step Test. Data were analyzed using normality and homogeneity tests followed by a paired sample t-test. The results showed significant improvements in all measured variables (p < 0.05), including increased muscle endurance and explosive strength, faster sprint performance, and improved cardiorespiratory recovery. These findings indicate that traditional Tebe dance is an effective, enjoyable, and culturally relevant physical activity that enhances lower limb and thigh muscle performance among elementary school students and can be integrated into school physical education programs.