Runners often assume that “running builds strong legs,” but a better way to think about this is: “Running requires strong legs.”

If you want to run faster and more efficiently then hill repeats, speed workouts, and long runs will help—but doing leg exercises consistently will give you the edge you need to power up inclines, have a strong finishing kick, and end a long run feeling good.

Relying solely on running is a “less-than-optimal” training strategy that can eventually lead to injuries too, Dane Miklaus , C.S.C.S., founder of WORK Training Studio in Irvine, California, tells Runner’s World.

To gain those benefits from your strength training, plus stay healthy and pick up your pace, Miklaus developed the following leg day workout. Incorporate it into your current strength-training plan or pair it with an easy run . (New to strength training?…