What good is running for our health?
Running is the most accessible sport. And it is a very good cardiovascular excersize. 
Thats true.What equipment do I really need to successully start running?
Well, since running is basically just a type of gait where all feet are above the ground, I recommend a good running shoe. 
What other types of gait are there?
Well there is a walking gait.  That is where one foot touches the ground at all times. 
Is there an official sport for just walking?
Yest here are power walkers. Walking is the main mode of locomotion among legged animals.,