Sensei Hanratty answers questions that new karate students, as well as those thinking of starting training, might have. The questions are posed by his former student (and producer of this podcast) Dan Kostka.

Some topics covered:

-The meaning and purpose of formality in the dojo

-Why traditional dojos use Japanese terminology

-Common fears new students might have

Sensei Hanratty goes deep into the past to discuss the pre-historical roots of the Japan that would later give rise to Samurai and eventually karate.

Sensei Hanratty discusses the role of timing and distance in fighting, whether at a competition or in a self-defense situation.

He also covers the following:

-What’s meant by “personal space”

-The difference between stances and footwork

-The different types of "kyo" – the interval when an opponent is vulnerable

Sensei Hanratty continues his discussion of using martial arts in the real world. Some points he covers:

-Adrenaline’s effect on fine motor skills

-What soccer hooliganism and skydiving can teach us about the addictive nature of adrenalin

-How to use the psychology of bullies to your advantage

Sensei Hanratty explains the differences between fighting in the dojo and fighting in the real world. He uses examples of real confrontations he's been in to illustrate his points.

Sensei Hanratty discusses the importance of a proper stretching routine. He covers the benefits and risks of various types of stretching, including static stretching, PNF stretching, ballistic stretching, and dynamic stretching.

Sensei Hanratty discusses how understanding biomechanics can help you develop safer and more effective techniques.

Sensei Hanratty discusses the introduction and growth of Shotokan karate in North America. Also discussed:

-The two main reasons karate organizations split up.-The best karate practitioner he ever saw, the best teacher, and the one with the best spirit.