I appreciate your response Mike. I normally direct people to TOAS w/ the following caveat.. The first 2 or 3 years are a testing period. You will be given very little other than forms. The expectation is that if the student is interested enough and dedicated, then they'll think things through, and put a real effort to work things out themselves. The way Safakhoo learned was pretty old school. There was an elevated platform that his master would use to demonstrate a single technique, then leave. The student was expected to pay attention, then work out the difficulties w/ other students. Safakhoo softened the teaching method a bit, as he will, or at least would answer questions and make corrections. However, the expectation is that when enough experience is gained, the student should be able to tell when something isn't quite right. The student should be able to tell when a technique is executed properly.
The guys who are studying at TOAS need to be aware that learning is a continuous, long term process. Some people have enough talent that they can be relatively formidable in a couple of years, but for most it will take longer. Also, at least initially, every effort should be made to learn the style as taught, but almost any style will necessitate changes to fit ones personal build, abilities etc. When I sparred, I very rarely used Safakhoos style or strategy, because I was normally the shortest, and smallest one there, excepting the females or kids. However, he liked the way I sparred because I was "sneaky". One of the nice things about developing your own style is that you can incorporate things that work for you. Which is exactly what Safakhoo did w/ TOA.
Frankly, I was a bit disappointed w/ the videos. I see a bit too much slop and weakness there. However, it's just
PR. It's staged to spark an interest. The "real" stuff comes later. It's on the same level as some of the martial arts demos. When Safakhoo was learning in Iran, they would have periodic demonstrations to attract new students. Same thing here and w/ the web site. Back when I was wrestling, and in my prime, it took me about 3 years before I was really working anywhere near my potential.. And I had a talent for it. Those were the most intense workouts I've ever been through. Much harder than any martial arts training I've been through. New guys have to give it time, and a real effort.
In conclusion, TOAS is a bona fide martial art, and kung fu. Not uniquely Persian, but w/ Iranian/Persian influence. It has it's weaknesses, but I think it's one of the best first styles to learn in this area.