Aim The present randomized controlled trial evaluated the impact of different exercise training modalities on functional fitness responses in apparently healthy older men. Methods A total of 59 community‐dwelling older men were randomly assigned to an aerobic training group (ATG, n = 19), a combined aerobic and resistance training group (CTG, n = 20) or a control group (n = 20). Both exercise training programs were moderate‐to‐vigorous intensity, 3 days/week for 9 months. Six independent functional fitness tests (back scratch, chair sit‐and‐reach, 30‐s chair stand, arm curl, 8‐ft up‐and‐go, 6‐min walk) were measured on five different occasions. The data were analyzed using a mixed‐model ANOVA. Results ANOVA showed a significant main effect of group (P < 0.001) for all functional fitness tests, with significant differences between both training groups and controls. However, the ATG only improved the chair sit‐and‐reach and the 30‐s chair stand performance, whereas CTG improved in all functional fitness tests. ANOVA also identified a significant main effect of time for 8‐ft up‐and‐go (P = 0.031) in the CTG. Conclusions Only the combined exercise program was effective in improving all functional fitness components related to daily living activities. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; ●●: ●●–●●.