The only system on the list I can comment on is Wado-Ryu. I put together some bullet points and I hope they are useful to you; Advantages: Good balance between the Kihon, Kata and Kumite elements. Introduced to Jiyu Kumite (free sparring) relatively early. Ohyo, Kihon and Kata Kumite (Not to be confused with Bunkai) are relatively uniform between clubs, and give early and easy access to Wado-Ryu fighting concepts and principles. That should not be translated as easy to pick up and perform well though. Has a number of unique Kihon Waza which emphasise the core stratagems of Wado-Ryu, and which are not found in other ryuha. Has a breadth of kata, while not being too vast in scope. Have a number of kumite exercises derived from Jujutsu which are not found in other Karate systems, providing insights into combative notions and solutions not confronted by other ryuha. At it uses natural postures, and techniques based on Tai Sabaki and Kazushi it is suited to older practitioners or those of smaller stature. Principles of power generation are taught for percussive, trapping and grappling ranges making it suitable for training at all ranges. Disadvantages: Kata are primarily of Shuri and Tomari decent, lacking an influence of Naha Te limiting, to an extent, what can be explored via the Kata. Kata have been modified and follow a distinct way of thinking, making a comparison to analogues from other systems practice of the same kata difficult to make. Great divides on Bunkai, some teachers have embraced the concept, where as others prefer to utilise the kumite exercises established by Ohtsuka Meijin alone. Relating to the Bunkai divide, some favour the jujutsu heritage of the system over the karate heritage and vice versa, hence leading to differences in the kind of practice methods you will find between clubs. Hojo Undo is a low priority for most, though flexibility and cardio are trained to be developed as in any martial art plus Makiwara, hand weights, and Tetsu-Gata are not alien to many Wadoka. However, it is far from that experienced in Full-Contact or Okinawan systems. Originating as a hybrid style with a distinct flavour and modus operandi, cross training can become a confusing rather than illuminating experience for one exploring Wado-Ryu or moving from Wado-Ryu to other ryuha. Lacks Kobujutsu or weapon practice native to Wado-Ryu, despite the presence of Baki-Dori against the Knife and Long sword. Other comments: I personally no longer believe in the mantra that training hard in any style is a worth while venture. There is some absolute junk out there, and despite my own experience in seeing some great martial artists arise from terrible teachers and terrible students arising from great teachers I would not sell yourself short. Do not do yourself a disservice by settling, make sure you find a teacher that gives you feed back you can work with. That will matter more than the system alone in the end, a good teacher.
