http://martial.jessecrouch.com/2009/10/goal-based-martial-arts-technique.html

I wrote this recently. The idea is that most of what is being trained out there is void of goal. Without understanding what your goal is, you will not be able to execute your technique optimally.

An example: I believe that most people who train martial arts do it for "self defense" and "escape" reasons (stay alive and get out of the situation as quickly and safely as possible). Unfortunately, a lot of what is taught doesn't actually teach people how to do that. Instead they're taught to stick around, fight and restrain people.

Would love to hear your thoughts.

Isn't this sort of thing one of the responsibilities of a good coach/instructor?

There are so many different ways of looking at this that you could come up with pros and cons for every single situation. It's almost pointless.

I think the key to understand is that each situation is different and probably requires a different approach. This is the sort of topic that each individual really needs to think about himself and decide what his needs are.

I agree that it's possible that some practices might emphasize "sticking around" and fighting, etc. However, some situations might require that.

All in all, I'd say it's important to be cognizant of what one's needs are, the situation one is involved within and be taught hown to think and analyze on the fly.