A functional fitness test, which is composed of four tests-standing up, walking, hand working, and rope working, was applied to thirty-four elderly women (62.9 +/- 5.2 y.o.) living in O town, Fukuoka Prefecture. The functional fitness level was lower among obese women, and higher among women who were doing more physical activities, as well as those who have more subjects of pleasure in their daily life. Furthermore, there was a positive correlation between the bone density and functional fitness level. The functional fitness test has several favorable characteristics for use in the community based health education for the elderly. For example, 1) it is very easy to conduct and does not require any special pre-test training, 2) it is very safe, 3) as results directly correspond to daily activities, it is rather easy to give concrete advise regarding health promotion in daily life.