Sadly, a vast majority of people do seem to be fairly shallow on their intentions of taking a martial arts class or self defense class. I've been involved in martial arts for only two years and have seen my share of garbage that goes on.
I take it not really for self defense as I do to protect other people around me. To do that of course you have to be able to defend yourself. I have yet to use it, and am quite proud of that. Oddly enough, "looking cool" can sometimes be to a great advantage self defense wise (not in the same way you guys meant above though). Just in classes, some people avoid sparing with others just because they "seem to know what they are doing." And while they can be quite good, their behavior tends to defend them more than their actual skill. You'd be surprise the effect of just walking straight has on how people will view you.
For me, it is Judo, and starting to look a bit into Aikido. Tried Kenpo, but didn't really like it. It depends on who you get as a teacher of course too (to a GREAT deal), and I've been lucky to have some very GOOD instructors, including Phil Porter.
I've been hurt, but not injured. There is a difference. Pain you just have to suffer through, maybe wait a few days or a week if you really strain something. It is just part of life, and you have to get through it. If you have taken martial arts this long, and are TRULY complaining about the pain (not just joking as you seem to be) then you must have missed a lot during the time you have been practicing.
Eitherway, I'm still confused to the point of this post!
)
