There are hundreds of different martial arts styles and they are all effective for self-defense. The bottom line is that for a dedicated student, styles don’t matter. Remember Bruce Lee.
In all systems, lower ranking students learn pretty much the same things: front punch, snap kick, back kick, back fist, how to move, how to transition, how to fall and how to block. As a brown belt, one system may favor grappling while another focuses more on high kicks while another on joint locking techniques. So what? On the black belt level, you become a more effective warrior by incorporating different style while emphasizing your strengths and compensating for your weaknesses.
All schools should offer an introductory trial period. You want to choose a school where you feel comfortable camaraderie with your fellow students and the karate school operator. All students and instructors should be happy and relaxed and make you feel welcomed.
Make sure that the school is conveniently located and that class schedules match your personal schedule. Keep at it. Learn and have fun.
Who dares wins.
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