XtremeTrainer

My goal is to train hard, be in prime shape, and be the best I can be and to take my prime to the grave whenever that might be. After all, Helio Gracie, up until he died in his mid 90s was training hard and in excellent shape. Definitely an inspiration for me.

Since there is no law about claiming to be whatever degree you want, whether or not you've earned it, instructors can get away with it although sooner or later they will be exposed and smart students will not train under them. As you said, careful investigation and good research is the key. An experienced martial artist usually would know the difference between a real instructor and a fake one but for somebody just starting out it is easy for them to be duped. As for me, I don't really care much if an instructor has a high dan rank or not as rank at that point just becomes political. Having good skills and being a good teacher is what I judge an instructor on.

I started BJJ at the age of 40. I am 42 now and loving it.

I must say Karate is an awesome martial art and I speak from my own experience. At least its been awesome for me and its still my primary art. Aside from Karate I've also taken up Brazilian Jiu Jitsu but Karate is still my first and foremost martial art.