In the "Martial Frankenstein" thread, Brian made a good point here. Many times, we hear people talking about being complete. I've said it myself...that if one is serious about the martial arts, and even moreso, about self defense, that they do what they can, to be as complete as possible. So, are there any systems that can call themselves complete? I suppose that before we answer that question, we should ask exactly what our idea of complete, is. I'll use Kenpo as an example, since thats an art that I've done for quite a while. However, for the sake of the thread, any art can be discussed. Contained in the system, there're defenses against empty hand attacks, such as punches and grabs. There are defenses against multiple attackers. Defenses against weapons and defenses against attempted takedowns/tackles. So, given all that, it would seem that its pretty complete. I've tended to disagree with that 100%, due to the fact that I'm not seeing the groundwork/groundfighting, that some other Kenpoists say is there, but thats a difference of opinion I guess.
Another thing to consider is....while an art may contain various things, it could also just be scratching the surface of those things. How in-depth does one need to go to be considered complete? Is learning the basics of something enough? Do we need to study another art, more in-depth, to get better and expand in those areas? What do you all feel makes something complete?
Another thing to consider is....while an art may contain various things, it could also just be scratching the surface of those things. How in-depth does one need to go to be considered complete? Is learning the basics of something enough? Do we need to study another art, more in-depth, to get better and expand in those areas? What do you all feel makes something complete?