If you’re new to martial arts, it’s easy to assume that all karate styles are basically the same. In reality, there are many variations — each with its own history, techniques, training methods, and philosophy. Two of the most popular are Shotokan Karate and Freestyle Karate.

At Bushido Martial Arts in Stockport, we teach Freestyle Karate (click here to learn more) — and we’re often asked how it differs from the more traditional Shotokan style. The truth is, our approach includes many aspects of Shotokan within it. Here’s how they compare and why our founder, Sensei John Robertson, chose this path.

A Brief History of Shotokan Karate

Shotokan is one of the oldest and most widely practised karate styles in the world. It was developed in Japan by Gichin Funakoshi in the early 20th century, blending traditional Okinawan martial arts with Japanese influences.

Shotokan places a strong emphasis on:

• Kihon (basic techniques): punches, kicks, and blocks performed with precision.

• Kata (forms): pre-arranged sequences that simulate fighting scenarios.

• Kumite (sparring): usually semi-contact and highly structured.

Training is deeply rooted in tradition, with set movements, strict stances, and a focus on discipline and respect. It’s often described as “classical karate” — powerful, precise, and highly regimented.

What Is Freestyle Karate?

Freestyle Karate is a modern evolution of traditional karate. It keeps the core principles of discipline, respect, and technique, but introduces greater flexibility, adaptability, and real-world application.

At Bushido Martial Arts, we teach Freestyle Karate that incorporates many elements of Shotokan, including kata and sparring, because we believe they are vital to a student’s development. This approach was chosen by our founder, Sensei John Robertson, who designed our syllabus to combine the discipline and structure of traditional karate with techniques that are effective in real-life self-defence situations.

Our Freestyle Karate system focuses on:

• Dynamic sparring: Semi-contact and light-contact sparring with real-world application.

• Traditional foundations: Strong emphasis on kata, kihon, and core Shotokan principles.

• Modern techniques: Blending traditional movements with kickboxing and practical self-defence.

• Body awareness: Understanding how the human body moves, reacts, and generates power.

• Personal expression: Students are encouraged to develop their own combinations and style.

Key Differences Between Shotokan and Freestyle Karate

Why We Teach Freestyle Karate at Bushido Martial Arts

Our mission at Bushido Martial Arts is to teach a martial art that’s as effective in real life as it is on the dojo floor. By combining the traditional Shotokan elements of kata, sparring, and discipline with a modern, adaptable approach, we give our students the best of both worlds.

This philosophy — shaped by Sensei John Robertson — ensures that training builds not only physical skills but also mental discipline, confidence, and a deep understanding of how the human body works.

Which Should You Choose?

If you love tradition, kata, and the cultural depth of Japanese martial arts, Shotokan Karate is a great choice.
If you want a system that includes the strengths of Shotokan but adds modern practicality, adaptability, and real-world effectiveness, then Freestyle Karate at Bushido Martial Arts is ideal.

Start Your Freestyle Karate Journey Today

Whether you want to build confidence, improve your fitness, or learn effective self-defence, Bushido Martial Arts in Stockport is the perfect place to start. Our experienced instructors create a welcoming environment for students of all ages and skill levels.

📍 Classes held at:
Bridgehall Community Centre, Siddington Avenue, Stockport, SK3 8NR
🗓 Weekly sessions: Monday & Thursday evenings, Saturday afternoons

Your first class is free, so why not come and experience Freestyle Karate for yourself?

👉 Contact us today or simply turn up 10–15 minutes before class to get started.