There is much more to life than combat. A warrior’s job is much bigger than fighting- it is the survival of his tribe: himself, his family, his country. We need to know about health, anatomy, physiology, nutrition, genetics, psychology, philosophy… And of course, the martial arts!
Whilst the most immediate result is self-defence skill, it is not limited to the practice of such. Training with us will increase your awareness, strength, flexibility, cardiovascular efficiency and mental control. We do not adhere to specific techniques or disciplines, rather we train with reality in mind and encourage personal growth and creativity.
Systema classes are held in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. However, most people like to push themselves to their limits, both mentally and physically. Training exercises usually take place with two or more people working together to help each other learn and give feedback. We like to work naturally within different scenarios and for people to be free and inventive with their self defence methods. Often the instructor will show ideas or solutions rather than fixed techniques. A hands-on approach to all aspects of self defence is a normal aspect of training. People feel that Systema classes are very relaxing and have a very positive effect on their health and well being. Our syllabus offers a broad range of training. For newcomers, the important initial steps are in learning to fall and roll correctly, working with correct posture, breathing and movements and learning to cope with punches, kicks, grabs and holds. As your confidence grows, training can spread into many areas.
Systema is Russian in origin. In the early 80’s there were two known masters of Russian Martial Art- Kadochnikov and Ryabko.
Michael Ryabko had a few very talented students, Vladimir Vasiliev probably being the best known in the West.
Vladimir Vasiliev was the first Russian to start teaching the System in the West in the 90’s, and it has been gaining momentum since. Vladimir, who resides in Toronto, taught his first seminar in UK in 2000, creating huge interest in Systema, and establishing a following that now numbers in thousands.
Our school in London has been continuously operating since 2000.
There are many legends about origins of Systema. Some of these are discussed in the pub after training.
It depends on why you are attending the classes. Self defence skills come relatively quickly in the system, however most people stay for the benefits it has on other aspects of their life – personal or professional. People come to martial arts for one reason, and end up staying for many. After the initial few months of training your perspective on martial arts (and perhaps on life) will change and you may want to learn different things.
You can, but you shouldn’t. Sorry if this sounds unfriendly; we encourage people to participate, rather than watch. The System, like life, needs to be experienced, not observed. If there are drills you are not comfortable doing, you can sit them out. But if you are sufficiently curious to come all this way to see us, please wear training clothes, and have a go! New participants are always welcome.
Trainers, tracksuit bottoms or any comfortable trousers, t-shirt.
Average age of people in the class is about 31, with the youngest being just under 20 and the oldest… let’s just be polite and say well over 40. Participants are mostly men, with about 2-4 women training on each day. Some have studied other arts for quite a few years, some still run their own martial arts schools. But most are regular people from all walks of life: taxi drivers, students, bankers, IT developers, researchers, sculptors, professional musicians, web designers, bodyguards, doormen, doctors (including PhDs), osteopaths…
It is not possible to separate physical training from psychological, emotional and spiritual. Everything we do in class works on all levels. If you do not see the connection immediately, please ask after class, we’ll try to explain.
Our classes are attended by people of all denominations: Christians, Jews, Muslims, Buddhists, and people who do not believe in any organised religion.
