For many runners, training without having a race goal is like earning college credits without aiming to get your diploma. You might do it, but it can quickly seem pointless, and motivation tends to evaporate.
 
For many of us, racing is the glue that holds the whole program together. Having a race circled on our calendar gets us out of bed in the morning and gets us on the roads and into the gym.
 
Incorporating strength and conditioning into your program will make you more injury resistant. But, of course, that’s not the only reason to do it. Improving running form, strength, and staying healthy, will make you a better racer as well. To make the most of your training, however, you need to do more than just train with a race goal in mind; you should tailor your training plan to meet that race’s specific demands.