katamaster

there is so many different styles it would seem impossible to create techniques that dont already exist

Well done!, You have just picked the most popular style of karate there is. Shotokan karate is the most powerful and dynamic of the Japanese systems, and is generally considered to be the most comprehensive, both in the range of it's techniques and the number and diversity of it's Kata. Train with dedication and constantly try to improve on the fundamentals (basics) and you will be rewarded with results. I am am currently an 8th kyu red belt at inyo shotokan karate club in tunbridge wells, Kent. https://www.inyoshotokan.com

Yeah, my sensei went on some special refferee course to try and help get karate into the olympics. The only thing is, karate can sometimes be very hard to refferee because of its scoring system and various forms of contacxt that is allowed.