We all know that staying fit and in shape is an important factor to keeping your body “beach ready.” Everyone wants to look and feel their best, especially once summer time rolls around. Now that we’ve hit June, you’ll probably see a lot more bodies hogging your cardio machines at the gym. (Grr. Just when the New Year’s resolutioners started to fade!) But when summer’s past and our bikinis are collecting dust, let’s try to remember just how much your body needs you to stay active -- even if you feel like it’s the last thing you want to do after a long day at work.

1. Mood-boosting chemicals.

I’m sure you know this by now, but one of the greatest things about exercise isn’t just having toned muscles and less cellulite. Exercise has been proven, time and time again, to positively affect mood through the release of endorphins. It’s also said to reduce inflammation that may be caused by depression. So on top of getting out there and feeling proud about yourself for doing so, it’s a guarantee that, for the rest of the day, you’ll be feeling happier, calmer, more energized, and more productive. Feeling down in the dumps? Get out there, get some sunshine, and get yourself moving. It’s the best thing you can do for a crummy mood.

2. Keeps you younger (inside and out).

Back to the inflammation thing -- regular exercise is said to reduce inflammation not only in the brain, but to every organ in the body, meaning if you keep a regular fitness regimen, you’ll be feeling and looking younger overall. Skip the wrinkle cream -- grab your running shoes and stay loyal to that treadmill.

3. Reduces risk of diabetes (and most other diseases).

Aerobic exercise (aka cardio) increases blood circulation, lowering your blood pressure and keeping your cholesterol at a healthy level. Therefore, your risk of getting type 2 diabetes at some point in your life decreases dramatically. Everything in your body balances itself with physical activity, including your blood sugar. And guess what? Studies show that keeping in shape fights potential cancer cells, and in turn, reduces your risk of getting cancer. It’s a win-win situation all around.

4. Increases coordination and balance.

When you pick up a fitness routine, especially one that challenges you to engage your core muscles, you are guaranteed to walk away with improved overall coordination and balance. Stronger core muscles means increased strength all around, so your balance is bound to improve itself over time. Yoga is a great way to implement core strength, resulting in your body (and mind) having balance.

5. Improves your sex life.

Let’s be real -- who doesn’t want to improve their sex life? Studies show that when you’re in the gym just a few days a week, your overall blood flow is better, therefore, allowing blood to reach all the right places. On top of that, exercise releases adrenaline and, again, endorphins, allowing you to be your best self in the bedroom -- happy, flexible, and of course, properly circulating.