[diamondpete]

I would say that you will probably end up getting more bad habits that will be hard to break if you decide to take up MA seriously. A good example is how to move your feet. When you are jut starting out it is very easy to develop back movement habits and poor foot movement and placement. A common problem you will see among beginners is a tendency to "lift" on kicks. You will also see a lot "balance" problems (back to stance and foot work. I think it would be very difficult to teach yourself effectively, unless you are a very good natural athlete (like to 2 MA fighters mentioned about.

Why wouldn't you take lessons? location? cost? other?

cheers