The Rules of Karate
(Adapted from the writings of Gichin Funakoshi)

Be deadly serious in training:
Your opponent must always be present in your mind. Do not train by doing your techniques as in learning to dance. In combat one strike can decide everything. There may be no second chance.

Train with both heart and soul without worrying about theory:
Karate cannot be learned by theory alone. What you have learned by listening to other's words can quickly be forgotten. What you have learned with your whole body, you will remember for the rest of your life.

Avoid deceit and dogmatism:
A person who may brag or showoff will never earn true respect, although he/she may be very capable. This type of behaviour dishonours both the individual and the art.

Try to see yourself as you truly are and try to adopt what is meritorious in the work of others: Each of us has good qualities and bad. The wise person seeks to equal or excel in the good he/she sees in others and avoids the bad.

Abide by the rules and ethics in you daily life whether in public or private: The ultimate aim of the art of Karate lies not in victory or defeat, but in the perfection of the character of its participants. Karate aims at perfection of mind as well as body, however, expressions that praise only physical skill, bravery, and fighting capability should never be used in connection with it.