Creating a self-defense system

[Big Kahuna]

I've seen several organizations tauting their own brand of martial-arts based on mix-martial-arts principles. For the most part it seems like a combination of a stand-up and bjj, or something along those lines with a Krav Maga thrown in there. Is this kosher? (No pun intended with the Krav Maga example)

I also see that they give themselves black-belts in their own art. I don't get it. Do they have to be recognized by some sort of standards organization??? Or, is it just that they teach a variety of self-defense arts and intermingle the two into a cohesive form?

[Balo]

Styles like that are only as good as the instructors teaching it.
There is nothing wrong with setting up a new organization if you genuinely have something new and productive to teach.

However giving yourself a black belt or high ranking is dubious, as your experience and knowedge is not independantly documented/graded.

Also if you are teaching self defence, what ever your style, you should have sound practical knowedge before you teach others. And that does not mean only knowing theory learned only in a dojo.

[jeff5]

The only way to really know is to judge the instructor and his or her students. Watch class, talk to the instructor and the students etc. Also look into his/her credentials. Many "traditional" martial arts are an amalgamation of styles anyway, so combining styles to create your own style is actually quite common in most Martial Arts. You just have to be skeptical, but I would recommend skepticism with choosing any school or instructor.

[Big Kahuna]

So, the fact that they create their own system is acceptable? I am good with that, but when advertising and teaching, should they indicate that they are practioners of multiple disciplines and are just combining them to create a "total self defense" package?

In any case, if they do provide a "new" style, how do they become recgnized and how do they create a system of advancement that is legitimate?

[Balo]

A system of advancement which is legit does mean a hell of a lot when you are having a real fight. Being able to have the techniques, fitness and mental preparation is what counts. If your instructor give you that, then the rest is just paperwork.

[elliotNess]

see www.bullshido.com

[Tom Yum]

Hmmm.

A basic level of fitness would be good. You don't need to be in awesome shape, but decent shape.

Focus under pressure. Be able to stand up to punches, kicks and grappling attempts facing them at good speed with some intent in a spontaneous setting.

Dynamic training. Nothing static or slow beyond 1st time learning.

Techniques that do the most damage quickly.