Osu! Since there are many different forms and ryus of karate, how can you distinguish one from the other and what are the advantages and disadvantages.
My first introduction to karate was in 2001 when started training in Shotokan. While there, many of our stances are low. I left after reaching orange belt since the dojo where I trained was what you call a "MC-Dojo" though it is big and well respected in The Philippines. But the main reason was because their dojo and style was more for sport application rather than self defense.
Recently I started training in Kyokushinkai in which many of it's styles are based in Shotokan and Goju Ryu. Though the lower stance is less compared to Shotokan.
Anyway both Shotokan and Kyokushin has it's advantages and disadvantages. While the later is more full contact, there are certain rules when it comes to sparring like punching in head level.
My first introduction to karate was in 2001 when started training in Shotokan. While there, many of our stances are low. I left after reaching orange belt since the dojo where I trained was what you call a "MC-Dojo" though it is big and well respected in The Philippines. But the main reason was because their dojo and style was more for sport application rather than self defense.
Recently I started training in Kyokushinkai in which many of it's styles are based in Shotokan and Goju Ryu. Though the lower stance is less compared to Shotokan.
Anyway both Shotokan and Kyokushin has it's advantages and disadvantages. While the later is more full contact, there are certain rules when it comes to sparring like punching in head level.