Gichin Funakoshi quotes

Gichin Funakoshi was a Japanese martial artist, widely regarded as the founder of modern Shotokan karate. His teachings and philosophy helped spread karate beyond Okinawa and throughout Japan and the world. He inspired generations of practitioners and is revered as a key figure in the history of martial arts. Here are 20 of his quotes:

Only through training will a person learn his own weaknesses... He who is aware of his weaknesses will remain master of himself in any situation.

Gichin Funakoshi

Spirit first, technique second.

Gichin Funakoshi

Once a kata has been learned, it must be practised repeatedly until it can be applied in an emergency, for knowledge of just the sequence of a kata in karate is useless.

Gichin Funakoshi

To search for the old is to understand the new.

Gichin Funakoshi

Karate is a technique that permits one to defend himself with his bare hands and fists without weapons.

Gichin Funakoshi

In battle, do not think that you have to win. Think rather that you do not have to lose.

Gichin Funakoshi

When you look at life think in terms of karate. But remember that karate is not only karate -- it is life.

Gichin Funakoshi

Apply the way of karate to all things. Therein lies its beauty.

Gichin Funakoshi

You must ignore the bad and adopt the good.

Gichin Funakoshi

Always be ready to release your mind.

Gichin Funakoshi

First know yourself, then know others.

Gichin Funakoshi

When you are learning a new technique, practice it wholeheartedly until you truly understand it.

Gichin Funakoshi

Success, cannot be attained alone. Any person's time and power is limited. A wise leader enlists others in working toward organizational goals.

Gichin Funakoshi

Inner mental technique is more important than the physical one.

Gichin Funakoshi

The spirit of karate practice and the elements of training are applicable to each and every aspect of our daily lives.

Gichin Funakoshi

Karate begins and ends with courtesy.

Gichin Funakoshi

Don't pretend to be a great master and don't try to show off your strength.

Gichin Funakoshi

In time of grave public crisis, one must have the courage to face a million and one opponents.

Gichin Funakoshi