What does the term “Founder” mean behind the AFJ Instructors name?
It should be read as a warning to people looking for Instructors. This type of instructor has designed his own art and is teaching his unique style. He may have received little, or no formal training from a “legitimate” instructor. He may have had a lower rank (non-black belt rank) in an art and then branched off and started his own system. On the other hand, he may have received upper belt ranks in other arts and created his own style. This is similar to what Bruce Lee did. He gathered efficient techniques from many different arts and then started his own system. Gracie Jiu-Jitsu started the same way borrowing selected technique from a Japanese style and then added their own unique transition moves. Many arts that are now considered legitimate started this way including Kenpo Jujitsu and Danzan Ryu Jujitsu. So this does not always mean that a founder is not efficient or that he is not a good Instructor. The AFJ does not endorse a Founders style or qualifications, the AFJ is a registry
