This paper provides a brief review of theory, research, and educational implications for the role of exercise in controlling select biological and physiological changes which have traditionally been assumed to simply "happen" to the older adult. It is noted that recent research has suggested that many biological and physiological effects of growing older--the physical decline which occurs in many older adults--are primarily the result of such lifestyle factors as disuse or simply being "out of shape." Research reviewed in this paper points toward the critical role of lifestyle in the maintenance of health and the prevention of some of the disabling conditions often associated with age. Changes in attitudes towards physical fitness programs for older adults are discussed, and it is noted that, several years ago, medical experts, physiologists, and educators might have ignored or written off physical fitness programs for older adults as somewhat pointless. Cited research suggests that some of the symptoms of old age may be controlled or partially reversed through good physical conditioning. Implications for lifespan educational organization and design and for older adult educational programs are discussed. (Author/JM)