As with all elements of sports performance, athletes are always looking for ways to gain an edge. Supplements, diet, training plans and new gear are often at the top of the list. As endurance athletes, we spend as much time as we can engaging in the sport we love, whether it be cycling, running, swimming etc...
Finding the time and will to incorporate strength and conditioning training into our routines is often an after thought at best. However, there is much to be gained from making time to hit the gym or exercise at home. There are loads of ways to train for strength and the benefits are endless. Take into account the action of running, especially the longer distance races. To be successful, we need overall strength, consistent training and a good power to weight ratio. Strength training can help you achieve all of those attributes - if done correctly.
There are loads of resources available in helping you develop a training plan, what has worked for me is having clear goals, scheduling the time in my diary, doing some research on the exercises that work for endurance, 1-2-1 training with a qualified coach. Educate yourself and take the time to increase your strength, and this might mean a little less time running, swimming or cycling. But if it works for the likes of Mo Farah and Mark Allen, then I am sure it can work for you too.
Some good resources I have come across in the past are listed below:
https://philmaffetone.com/strength-training-part-1/
http://www.active.com/triathlon/articles/mark-allen-s-12-best-strength-exercises
http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/strength-training-for-runners-how-to-do-it-right.html