Aging is a progressive and inevitable process characterized by the decrease of the physical capacities and the functional autonomy, consequently. In this sense, it becomes very important the systematized practice of physical exercise for this population. The aim of the present study was to evaluate different modalities of physical exercises: strength training (n = 22), gymnastics (n = 23), water aerobics (n = 24), Pilates (n = 21) and control group (n = 24) on elderly women's muscular strength and functional autonomy. A total of 114 elderly women randomly divided into these four experimental groups and control group participated in the study. Classes were held three times a week on alternate days lasting 60 minutes for 24 weeks. The results showed that all exercise modalities were efficient in increasing muscle strength and functional autonomy for the elderly participants in the proposed exercise programs (strength training, gymnastics, water aerobics and Pilates), reinforcing the importance of an active lifestyle in this population. As a highlight of the investigated modalities, strength training overcame the other modalities about increasing muscle strength and transferring its physical capacity to functional autonomy.

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