08/25/2026
Ten Kumite Maxims
The following maxims come from the teachings of Koichi Nakasone, and were prepared on January 13, 1996 under the supervision of Hanshi Seikichi Iha, the Head Master of North America Shido-kan Head-quarters. They hung on the wall of the Nakasone dojo and served as a guide to help his students toward a better understanding of the proper spirit in karate-do training.
1. Everyone but you is a master.
2. Adopt good techniques from other styles into your system.
3. Do not fix your eyes on the opponent; look into the distance. (See what is far in a short distance and what is near in a long distance.)
4. The correct kamae is significant for a beginner; the advanced is detached from it.
5. In an unavoidable situation, be calm and act according to the circumstances.
6. In fighting more than one opponent, take the initiative and don't get surrounded.
7. Defensive and offensive moves change freely in response to the opponent's actions.
8. Physical and mental training demand ingenuity.
9. Know yourself and the opponent.
10. Be assiduous in your training; there is no end in the pursuit of shido.
Consider the above closely and devote yourself to the training of karate.
Photo credit to Chris Wilson, who produces the Sensei karate masters series.
