things resulting from the training contribute to internalizing the martial art philosophy, e.g. fighting spirit, courage, tenacity, fairness, modesty and tolerance. Above all the training in morality and the way of applying the techniques shape the students' character. Emphasis is placed on recognizing one's ego and overcoming it. In doing so the Vovinam student will gain generosity and tolerance with other people. With the awareness that the most important thing in a human's life are other humans, the final goal is to be able to not only help oneself but also to help others to live in peace and harmony with their surroundings. With the salutation "Iron Hand over benevolent heart", the student is reminded of the main principle and the goal of Vovinam Việt Võ Đạo with every training. It is also about using the opponent's force and reaction, reaching maximum effect with comparatively little force. 10 principles of Vovinam Việt Võ Đạo The term Việt Võ Đạo ("the way (Dao) of Viet Vo") was coined by the patriarch of the second generation of the Vovinam Viet Vo Dao, Lê Sáng, with the objective of adding a philosophical dimension to his martial art. This "Viet Vo Dao" consists of ten principles: Vovinam's disciples vow to pursue high proficiency in their martial art in order to serve the people and humanity. Promise to be faithful to the intentions and teaching of Vovinam and develop the young generation of Vovinam Viêt Võ Dao. Be united in spirit and heart, respect one's elder, be kind to one's peers. Respect discipline absolutely, maintain the high standard of personal conduct and honour of a martial art disciple. Have respect for other martial art schools, only use martial art skills for self-defense and protect justice. Be studious, strengthen the mind, enrich one's thought & behavior. Live simply, with chastity, loyalty, high principles and ethics. Build up a spirit of steely determination and vigor, overcome powers of violence. Make intelligent judgments, carry out struggles with perseverance and act with alertness. Be self-confident, self-controlled, modest and generous. (The wording can vary slightly between Vovinam schools) A "Việt Võ Đạo Federation" was founded on November 3, 1973, in order to reunite some Vietnamese martial arts. Therefore, "Việt Võ Đạo", in Europe, is also used as a generic term for certain Vietnamese martial arts and philosophies but in Vietnam is only used to refer to "Vovinam Việt Võ Đạo".