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In this minireview, we summarize the research results to date on the progression of functional limitations and the role of physical activity during the life course in preventing risk factor accumulation. In addition, socioeconomic and health disparities play a role in the development process of functional limitation throughout life. We discuss the potential role of physical activity in alleviating this process. Functional limitations usually develop gradually over an extended period of time while the level of physical functioning varies greatly already from midlife onwards. Current research strongly suggests that physical activity has a beneficial effect on functional limitations at different life stages on the population level. However, the potential impact of physical activity in alleviating the effects caused by socioeconomic disparities is inconsistent. Research findings are also conflicting on the extent of the effect of physical …