No rules. No belts. No nonsense. Systema - a fighting art without all the needless baggage’ Black Belt Magazine
Systema
Realistic, practical, effective
The Russian martial art of Systema is a practical, versatile and effective combat system. Systema training improves overall health, awareness and mobility, and is beneficial for martial arts practitioners as a cross-training option. Systema is open to everyone, regardless of age, occupation or experience.
The Russian style of martial art dates back to the 10th century. Russian warriors acquired a style that combined strong spirit with innovative and versatile tactics that were practical and effective against any type of enemy, under any circumstances. The style was natural and free with no rigid structure or limitations except morals. All tactics were based on instinctive reactions and individual characteristics, designed for fast learning. When the Communists came to power in 1917, they suppressed all cultural traditions. At the same time, the authorities realised how viable and devastating these original combat systems were, and reserved it for a few special military units.
Systema is a complete system of concepts and components. Acquiring martial skill is a way to improve the function of all physiological systems and levels of human ability, physical, psychological and emotional. The key principle of Systema is non-destruction, to ensure training and attitudes don't damage the body or psyche. A core concept is to know yourself; training a way to realise limitations, with everything that happens creating the best conditions for personal insight. Proper training puts every person into the best possible setting to realise as much about themselves as they are able to handle at any given moment. The ultimate quality that Systema develops is humility; training reveals weaknesses and provides tools to overcome them. A humble person devotes themself to overcoming the negative aspects of personality, resulting in peace, joy and absence of resentment. If humility becomes our character there is no room for pride, aggression, vanity, greed and envy. The spirit is noble; you will fight only when necessary, only for a good cause and to cause the least damage to an opponent, in a calm, fearless and professional way.
Foundation Exercises: Systema has 4 key principles: breathing, relaxation, structure and movement. Specialised exercises achieve complete physical preparation to provide strength, flexibility, endurance, a high level of awareness and confidence. Combined with breath training, they provide a foundation for every physical activity of life.
Unarmed Combat: learn principles of unarmed combat including ways to develop endurance, sensitivity, striking power, use of the body for defence and attack, and control of any empty-hand attack with emphasis on breathing, continuity, economy of motion and unpredictable moves.
Ground Fighting: unique strategies to overcome attacks from all positions, defeat multiple attackers and disarm weapons - all from the ground. Learn tactics to develop breathing, avoid injuries, maximise your body and strengthen your psyche. Unlock your potential and free yourself from limitations.
Weapons: use and defend against a knife, stick, or a gun. Control single or multiple armed attackers. Master tactics while unarmed or armed. Explore methods of turning everyday items in into effective tools of protection. Learn to conquer not just dangerous weapons, but your own vulnerability and fear.
 |
|
 Rich with Mikhail & Vladimir, Canada 2010 |
