I'm A Isshin ryu stylist,Which is a combo of kobayashi shorinryu,& Gojuryu.If there's a weakness in isshinryu?i cant find it. PS The purpose of MA, IS defending oneself from an agressor,Or Agressors. I Like kumite,But it will not help you in any altercation. That being said, If you wld make you stances shorter & more natural.You wld be able to shift,Or go in & OUt faster,Or maybe parry/sidestep much easier,Get out of the danger zone & strike.