WESTERN KARATE ACADEMY

Master Gichin Funakoshi's

Twenty Principles of Karate

1. Do not forget that karate begins and ends with respect.
2. There is no first attack in karate.
3. Karate stands on the side of justice.
4. First know yourself, then know      others.
5. Focus on your spirit and mind, not your technique.
6. The mind must be given freedom.
7. Inattention and neglect cause misfortune.
8. Never think that karate is only practiced in the dojo.
9. Karate is a lifelong pursuit.
10. Apply karate to everything, and you will see its beauty.
11. Karate is like boiling water; without heat, it will cool.
12. Do not think about winning; think about not losing.
13. Respond in accordance to your opponent.
14. Know where your enemy is strong and weak.
15. Think of your opponent’s hands and feet as sharp swords.
16. Step out the door and you face a million enemies.
17. Formal stances are for beginners; natural stances come later.
18. Perform kata correctly; real combat is another matter.
19. Never forget strength and weakness of power, extension or contraction of your body, and the rhythm of your technique.
20. Be constantly mindful, diligent, and creative.

About Gichin Funakoshi

The man most responsible for the systemization of karate , and the author of the "Twenty Principles", was Gichin Funakoshi.

In 1948, the Japan Karate Association was organized with Funakoshi as the chief instructor.

Funakoshi was instrumental in the introduction of karate, not only to Japan, but to the rest of the world.

Master Funakoshi died in 1957 at the age of 88.