In this day of MMA tournaments, otherwise known as mixed martial arts events, people everywhere have become more interested in self defense.  The cool thing is that martial arts videos are available in a ridiculous abundance.  Martial arts instructors everywhere are taking advantage of this phenomenon.  What a way to make some cash.  Film yourself instructing a particular style and sell it online.  Personally I can appreciate the recent facination with martial arts videos.  While I believe that in-person instruction is far superior than learning from a tape, there is something to be said for these new learning tools. 

Having studied a few differents martial arts, I have come to the conclusion that everyone should at least dabble in a style of self defense.  This way you gain some knowledge on fighting and hopefully get further intrigued.  In the harsh world we live in, it's always a good idea to be prepared.  As a Wing Chun practitioner, I have encountered a number of individuals who hold an interest in martial arts, but have never tried one.  I have been asked about martial arts videos on countless occassions. 

This always brings me to the question, "Why don't you simply take a class with a real-life instructor?"  Many people say that they are too busy to make time for a martial arts class.  This is to be expected in the hectic world we live in.  While many practitioners would disreguard the new-age way of learning self defense, I don't.  It's better than nothing.  However, I do recommend recieving training from a reputable teacher in your desired style before resorting to martial arts videos.  This way you get some foundation. 

Popular martial arts tend to focus on grappling and groundfighting these days.  This is what we see win in UFC and other MMA events.  I personally know a fellow who learned BJJ(Brazilian Ju Jitsu) from a tape.  He demonstrated for me one day and I was impressed.  He practiced the movements and techniques with a friend.  This was effective for him.  Whether you love or hate all the madness and craze of martial arts tapes these days, it doesn't seem to be leaving any time in the near future.  In fact it is only likely to increase considering the fast-paced world we live in.