Prevent Illnesses and Diseases
Sure, an apple a day might keep the doctor away, but so does a daily run! Research from the American Cancer Society found that doing regular cardiovascular exercise (i.e., running and walking) can help reduce risk of certain cancers (i.e., colon cancer and breast cancer) by approximately 30-percent.

Improves Memory
If you’re worried about memory loss you can do Sudoku. However, running may be just as beneficial, according to studies from the Mayo Clinic, which links regular cardio exercise to reducing memory loss and guarding the brain against Alzheimer’s and dementia-related conditions.

Run Anytime, Anywhere
Talk about an exercise that you can do anytime, anywhere the mood strikes! Running is probably one of the most convenient activities available. I can run outside (weather permitting), on vacation (no extra gear required), and even indoors (on my treadmill) at any hour of the day.

Running is Social
Talk about a great way to get a workout and catch up with your buddies at the same time—running is the perfect social exercise. And if you’re lacking running friends, chances are there’s a local running group taking new members in your area.

Burn Baby, Burn
If you’re trying to tone up for swimsuit season, running is a great way to shed a few excess pounds—especially when you consider that, on average, running burns 750 to 800 calories per hour (based on a 160-pound individual).