PURPOSE: to investigate the presence of vertigo in elderly patients by associating it with the practice of regular physical activity. METHODS: a cross-sectional study including elderly individuals with independent living. The physical exercise was assessed by a questionnaire with objective questions about the practice exercises and vertigo, Statistical analysis was performed using the chi-square and relative risk. RESULT: the sample consisted of 494 individuals from 60 to 95 years and was verify that there was a significant association (p = 0.001) between the lack of regular physical activity and vertigo and people who not practice activities physical are 2.38 more likely to have vertigo than those who engage in regular physical activity. It was observed an association of vertigo and lack of physical activity. There was also a correlation between lack of regular physical activity and vertigo in females, but there was no such association in males. CONCLUSION: In this study the presence of vertigo complaint was lower in elderly practitioners of regular physical activity.