I've had the privilege of practicing both Shorin-Ryu and Gojo-Ryu Karate over my career. I have a few former acquaintances who practice shotokan Karate and all claim it to be the best form of Karate of all the Karate systems. Of course I disagree, and having witness there training I just see it as a simplified version of Shorin-Ryu, of course knowing the history of Shotokan I got a little confused. So here's my question... 1) What in your opinion (if any) is the best form of Karate system? And 2) Giving what we know about the history of Karate and particularly Shotokan Karate, is it possible that what I was witnessing wasn't in fact Shotokan Karate but something else? or is Shotokan truly a newer version of Karate?
Seriously though, from my own experiences the only "good" karate has come from people who train hard and (ideally) actually have some MA experience from more than just karate. Example: Not a fan of Wado Ryu myself but the guy nearest me who teaches it is an incredible example to anyone who wants to practice seriously. The local Goju guy (a style of karate I am a big fan of) might as well be a sub standard Shotokan sporty club (save for a couple of different techniques and some different kata you honestly couldn't tell the difference). The nearest Shotokan group is a good Shotokan group but realistically not any different to any other Shotokan club out there. As for whether or not Shotokan is a newer version of karate...I tend to stick with something that the Wado instructor I mentioned once said - "All the different styles of karate are just different preferences in how to practice". It's not like karate is a particularly ancient art as it is.
My style. It is the best fit for me. You should try it sometime. It takes a foundation of traditional karate mix in boxing, judo, kali, a dash of kung fu, a pinch of tkd, throw in some basic ground stuff plus what ever else makes you smile. also for it to be the best you have to train harder than everybody else and retire while you are the best.
Dunno really, one could point out pros and cons in most of the systems. I particularly like shotokan. How could we possibly know that without having been there? Newer than what? I'm a bit confused by these questions.
Just IMO, the Okinawan styles look more effective with the lower kicks, more active handwork and closer range as opposed to Japanese styles. Both Shotokan and Isshin-Ryu are styles that came from a blend of Shorin-Ryu and Goju-Ryu, yet I personally favor the latter.
I am going to address the first question - what is your goal in training? Best is a relative term, and boils down a lot of times to a per school basis and how they are teaching and training.
When a martial art no longer is just a martial art, but becomes a way of life, that is the one that is best for you. I think the key is in cross-training. I learned more about Goju-ryu karate from training in other arts. This made me appreciate it more.
