About Systema
Systema is the Russian word for 'The System'. It may be considered a
reference to the various systems of the human body; cardiovascular,
nervous, muscular, skeletal, etc. and to more abstract concepts of
human function, such as spirit and psychology. It is a Russian martial
art used by the Russian Special Forces (the 'Spetsnaz'.)
A highly adaptive martial art, Systema is built upon principles
grounded in the mechanics and psychology of the human body. Applied
well, Systema facilitates a strong defence to the types of
confrontation that occur in every-day life and often equally as well to
more exotic situations.
Regular training is fun, grueling and practical. Unique warm-up
exercises provide strength and conditioning that promotes a relaxed confidence that stays with you outside your training while drills and
sparring illustrate and teach the more physical principles of Systema.
Unlike other martial arts, Systema training focuses more on drills
and sparring instead of detailed choreographed patterns of movements
often associated with other martial arts.
Systema principles are based on posture, breathing, movement and
stamina. Practice builds power, confidence and endurance.
Beginners can expect to cover topics such as breathing, learning to
fall and roll safely, getting out of holds and grabs and learning to take punches
and kicks. More experienced students will learn how to combat multiple
opponents, work from the ground, read body language and defend against
common weapons. Systema considers not just the phsyical but the
psychology and awareness of avoiding confrontation and understanding
your opponent.
The key principle of Russian Systema is non-destruction. The
goal is to make sure that your training and your attitudes do no damage
to the body or the psyche of you or your partners. Systema is designed
to create, build and strengthen your body and your psyche, not destroy it or your partner/opponent.
One of Mikhail Ryabko's words to the beginners is "be a good person
and everything else will come to you." In a simple yet comprehensive
way Systema helps you choose and follow the right path.
History of Systema
Systema is based on a set of principles dating back to the 10th
century. Developed by Russian warriors who were often fighting a
superior enemy in appauling heat and with fewer men, they developed a
style that is both practical and innovative. Since then the system has been modernised by the Russian Special Forces (the 'Spetsnaz') and their Special Operations Units.
Systema was founded by Mikhail Ryabko and Vladimir Vasiliev. Mikhail
is a Colonel of the Special Operations Unit with the Russian military,
with extensive military combat and martial arts training. Vladimir is
Director and Chief Instructor of Systema Headquarters in Toronto, Canada. He is Mikhail Ryabko's top student, and has trained
and certified over 300 qualified Russian Martial Art instructors
worldwide.
