Dr. Graves is Running Boston! 
The Running Doctor Prepares and Trains for Boston 2015
It may be hard to believe but the Boston Marathon is less than a week away. Sol Foot & Ankle Sports Podiatrist, Dr. Richard Graves has been working hard, training to run his first Boston Marathon. Dr. Graves is excited but also a bit nervous about running the marathon for several reasons.
Q: How do you feel about running the upcoming Boston Marathon 2015?
A: Dr. G -"The thought of running the Boston Marathon is very exciting for several reasons. First, The Boston Marathon IS the Holy Grail of marathons - one that every marathoner wants to run at least once. I am also excited about traveling to Boston area, visiting the landmarks and historical sites. Thinking about running Boston also makes me a bit nervous. I'm really not nervous yet for the race itself-that may happen once I get there, but actually running the race will be a bit of a relief.
The one thing that makes me more nervous is anticipation of all the training. Knowing I have to go run a 20-miler on the weekend, keep up with training during the week and still stay focused on work (and taking great care of all my patients!) adds a little bit of stress.
The one thing that makes me more nervous is anticipation of all the training. Knowing I have to go run a 20-miler on the weekend, keep up with training during the week and still stay focused on work (and taking great care of all my patients!) adds a little bit of stress.
Overall, though, the excitement far outweighs the nervousness. Training for such a big event really helps me to stay focused on everything, not just running. And I know that the outcome will be a great race experience and a fun vacation to boot. Boston here I come!!"
Q: How have you been training to run the Boston Marathon?
A: I have been training with Beach City Runners Running Group at the Los Alamitos High School track where I work on intervals and speed training each week. I have also been running Signal Hill to prepare for Boston's "Heartbreak Hill" at the 20-mile mark and getting in one long run each week. I also recently ran the Brea8K Masters and the Surf City Half Marathon in February.
Q: What shoes will you be running the Boston Marathon in?
A: The Brooks Ravenna. This is my go-to running shoe that gives me the best stability and forefoot cushioning for long runs.
Q: How do you mentally prepare for race day?
A: Besides eating healthy and staying hydrated I mentally prepare myself by staying relaxed and visualizing the race. I break the course down smaller segments. I don't want to over-analyze every detail of the race but instead want to stay focused and relaxed.
Q: What's your race day routine?
A: I start my day with a light breakfast and plenty of water. I like to get a jump start on the day by arriving early but I try not to be standing on the starting line too early. This helps keeps me relaxed.