BACKGROUND: Recent research supports the effective translation of an evidence-based program, Active Living Every Day, into community settings with diverse populations. The programs resulted in significant improvements in self-reported physical activity (PA) and related quality of life outcomes in midlife and older adults. The effects of the program on improving physical function has not yet been reported, but would add important information about program benefits and effectiveness. PURPOSE: To evaluate the effects of a group-based PA behavioral change program on functional performance measures in midlife and older adults METHODS: Active Living Every Day, a 20 week, group-based, PA behavioral-based program, was offered to community dwelling midlife and older adults through senior and community centers, churches, and senior housing complexes. In addition to pre-and post-test surveys, participants completed four functional performance measures from Rikli & Jones' Senior Fitness Test. Eligibility to participate in functional performance measures was assessed using a modified PAR-Q. A four item battery measuring lower extremity strength (Chair Stand), walking speed (50-Foot Walk Test), mobility (Eight Foot Up-and-Go), and flexibility (Chair Sit-and-Reach) was conducted during the scheduled class session in weeks 2 and 19 of the 20-wk program. Paired t-tests were used to compare results from program initiation to program completion. Effect sizes (d) from pre to post test were also computed. RESULTS: Analysis were conducted on 401 participants with pre- and post-program performance measures on at least one test. Mean age of participants was 71.2 ± 9.3 years, and they were primarily female (84%) and Caucasian (86%). Significant differences (p<.0001) were found for strength (n=285, d=0.50), walking speed (n=396, d=−0.18), mobility (n=302, d=−0.21), and flexibility (n=160, d=0.46). CONCLUSION: This study found that significant improvements in physical function were gained from participation in an evidence-based behavioral program for older adults delivered in community settings. These results support the effectiveness of behavior-based programs for improving both perceived and objective health improvements. Funded by: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation