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Kyokushin vs Shotokan: differences explained

Kyokushin: full-contact striking. Shotokan: striking: karate style. For self-defence, Kyokushin has the stronger focus. Best advice: try one class of each.

KyokushinShotokan
Origin and founderJapan · Masutatsu Oyama, 1964Japan · Gichin Funakoshi and son Yoshitaka; JKA founded 1949
TypeFull-contact strikingStriking: karate style
UniformWhite dogi and beltWhite karategi and belt
Belt / ranking systemKyu and dan; coloured beltsKyu and dan; coloured belts
Typical techniquesLow and high kicks, body punches, kata, conditioningLong low stances, linear strikes, kata
Sport / competitionYes: bare-knuckle knockdown, no punches to the headYes: point kumite and kata
Self-defence focusHighMedium
Olympic statusNoAs karate, only at Tokyo 2020
Where to train📍 Kyokushin clubs📍 Shotokan clubs

Summary written by Wabukan; rules and grading vary by federation and school.

Sources: Wikipedia — Kyokushin · Wikipedia — Shotokan · olympics.com

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