It seems you have raised a great deal of great advice for kata improvement, reading through the best replies they seem to be feeling what I feel. If you can understand the bunkai (application) then you'll enjoy the practice. I've been training karate for 31 years and I was predominantly a kumite based athlete and loved it and still do, however now in my role as Shihan I have developed a love and appreciation for kata. I only really got that appreciation once I got to practice the moves with partners in a reality based drill. Good luck, you will be amazed at the change you will see in your skills once you train quality kata!
