Training different styles at the same time

[Mr. Precision]

What do you think, dumb idea? As far as I can see all of the masters trained in more than one style, but presumably not before mastering the first one.

[Aefibird]

I think it's mainly a good idea, although I wouldn't recommend it for new karateka. Getting your head round one style is enough at first! Once you've been established long enough in one style (after several years, say) then you could train in another karate style as well. It's all karate, it's all good.

BTW, when you say "training in other styles", I take it you mean just other karate styles and not other MA styles in general?

[random]

The important thing to remember that these people who trained in the other arts are masters (not my words) which means they have spent more than 10 years in MA.

I have spent 25 years in MA in various systems and styles, and recently started looking into another system, although I wouldn’t claim to be anything but a beginner in my chosen discipline I now value the contribution the other system has made to my original discipline.

Training in other systems is good, and can be important, but a Jack of all trades and a master of none is going to get their butt kicked at every opportunity.

[Aefibird]

I like cross-training in other arts, but I cross train to help with my karate. If it interfered then it'd have to go. Karate comes first in my book.

[RigsVille]

I did Kung Fu for about 4 years before I stared Karate, after a few weeks of Karate training I stopped Kung Fu and concentrated on my Karate training.

Even now 20 years later I still find myself performing certain 'Kung Fu' techniques and catching Karate people out with them.

Cross training is very important - but take it easy and if you’re new to MA, train in one style at a time so as not to confuse yourself.