Aims: to test the hypothesis that a semi-supervised home physical exercise program improves the functional mobility and quality of life (QOL) of elderly in the community. Methods: This trial was conducted with elderly people (88% female), aged 60 years or older, sedentary and without cognitive decline. Elderly were randomly assigned to an intervention group - IG (home physical exercise and sleep hygiene) and a control group - CG (sleep hygiene). Were applied the International Questionnaire on Physical Activity; mental state mini-exam and the Timed Up and Go test (TUG) before and after the 12-week intervention period. Results: The IG showed an improvement in functional mobility, with a mean reduction in TUG execution time (p <0.01) and improvement in the QOL, (p <0.01) in WHOQOL-OLD. Conclusion: Semi-supervised physical home exercise is effective in improving the functional mobility and the QOL of sedentary elderly in the community. Trial Registration: Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos (REBEC) Identifier: RBR-3cqzfy Keywords: Elderly; exercise; functional mobility; quality of life; community; physical activity; home exercise.