TRAINING

Dojo Kun

The Dojo Kun refers to the set of guiding principles or precepts that Shotokan Karate practitioners are encouraged to follow, both within the dojo (training hall) and in daily life. These precepts were formulated by Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate, and are recited at the end of training sessions in many dojos worldwide.

The traditional Dojo Kun consists of five fundamental principles, which are typically recited in Japanese:

Hitotsu! Jinkaku Kansei Ni Tsutomuru Koto.

[ Seek Perfection Of Character ]

*Shtots! Jeenkaku kansay nee sto mutu koto.

Hitotsu! Makoto No Michi O Mamoru Koto.

[ Be Faithful ]

*Shtots! Mahkoto no meechee o mahmoru koto.

Hitotsu! Doryoku No Seishin O Yashinau Koto.

[ Endeavor ]

*Shtots! Do ryooku no saysheen o yashinow koto.

Hitotsu! Reigi O Omonzuru Koto.

[ Respect Other ]

*Shtots! Ray gi o omonzuru koto.

Hitotsu! Kekki No Yu O Imashimuru Koto.

[ Refrain from Violent Behavior ]

*Shtots! Keh key no you o imashimuru koto.

* Phonetic Sound

Each line begins with "Hitotsu!" which translates to "One!" or "First!" This signifies that all the principles are of equal importance and should be followed with the same level of commitment. These principles are not only meant to guide technical practice but are also moral and ethical guidelines intended to shape a practitioner's attitude and behavior in life.

Shotokan Niju Kun (二十訓) - The Precepts of Karatedo

The term "Nijū Kun" refers to the "Twenty Precepts" or principles set forth by Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of Shotokan Karate. These precepts provide philosophical guidelines that extend beyond mere physical practice, emphasizing the importance of character development, discipline, and the integration of martial arts principles into daily life.

Karate begins with courtesy and ends with courtesy.
There is no first attack in karate.
Karate is an aid to justice.
First, control yourself before attempting to control others.
Sprit comes first, technique second.
Always be ready to set your mind free.
Accidents arise from negligence.
Do not think that karate training is only in the dojo.
Learning karate will take an entire life; there is no limit.
Put karate into your everyday life, and you will find ‘Myo’ (subtle secrets).
Karate is like boiling water; without heat, it returns to its tepid state.
Do not think you have to win – instead, think you do not have to lose.
Make adjustments according to your opponent.
The battle’s outcome depends on how you handle weakness and strength.
Think of your hands and feet as swords.
When you leave home, think that a million enemies are waiting for you.
Beginners must master low stances and posture; natural body positions are for advanced students.
Practice prescribed sets of techniques exactly; actual combat is another matter.
Remember the employment of power withdrawal, the body's extension and contraction, and the swift or leisurely application of technique.
Be constantly mindful, diligent, and resourceful in your pursuit of Karatedo (the way of karate)

Karate training involves three segments - Kihon, Kata, Kumite.

The initial category is the training of 'KIHON' or 'BASICS.' This segment encompasses a range of blocking, punching, kicking, and striking techniques honed through the repetitive practice of individual techniques or combinations.

The following practice category is 'KATA' or 'FORM,' which involves executing predetermined defensive and offensive maneuvers designed to simulate encounters with imaginary adversaries. Engaging in kata practice enables students to enhance their focus on technique and cultivate a heightened awareness of their surroundings.

The third training category is 'KUMITE' or 'SPARRING,' involving collaborative exercises with a partner to refine offensive and defensive techniques. Kumite encompasses various practice tiers, ranging from rehearsed sequences of attacks and counterattacks to unrestricted sparring. This form of training contributes to the enhancement of timing, speed, strength, precision, control, and inherent instincts.