Functional capacities begin a decline after 30 years of age. Both physical and physiological parameters decline with advancement of age, but not at the same rate. For example. endurance declines very slowly after reaching its peak but agility declines abruptly. If participation in physical activities is continued the parameters of aged population can be maintained within the limits. Research studies show that regular exercise helps in protein retention, resulting in delaying the strength decreases with ageing. Physical activity in later life supports the nervous system to work activity as in the young age. Physical exercise enables aged population to retain cardiovascular functioning. Osteoporosis is a major problem of mass population for people over 60 years of age. Regular physical activity can stop or decline these changes in bone density. F'or middle aged group the exercise programme includes walking, jogging, cycling and calisthenics. If we spread this awareness by conducting sports programmes our population will he healthy and fit. We must understand the importance of physical activity as they lay the real foundation of out' life in later years too.
