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HOW DO I KNOW SYSTEMA IS FOR ME? |
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Well, that's a hard one to answer as only you can decide that. The best thing is to actually do it. This is far better than just watching a class, as feeling is believing. If you find doing something uncomfortable you don't have to do it. Our training is so broad ranging that most people find there is something of particular interest, a good starting point to engage themselves in areas they find more difficult. |
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IS SYSTEMA EFFECTIVE IN REAL LIFE? |
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The short answer is yes. It's used by the Russian special forces and government bodyguards after all. The results will depend on how and why you train. The important thing is to make the right decision at the right time. Training with us can increase your ability to do this. |
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WHAT SHOULD I WEAR? |
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Anything you are comfortable in. Most people wear tracksuit bottoms, t-shirt and trainers. |
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IS SYSTEMA TRAINING GOOD FOR FITNESS AND FLEXIBILITY? |
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Yes, our conditioning drills promote strength through the entire range of body moment, dramatically increase flexibility and help increase cardiovascular function. The mental aspects of endurance are also emphasised. |
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I AM ALREADY EXPERIENCED IN ANOTHER MARTIAL ART. WHAT CAN YOU OFFER ME? |
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I think you will find our training methods and environment very different from your previous experience. Whilst we cultivate a friendly and informal atmosphere, we push ourselves to mental and physical limits. Classes are not routine based or formulaic, rather they are based on what the teacher feels the student needs. Rolling on hard ground and training full contact or with real weapons can be very daunting at first; however this transitional phase will leave you with a good understanding of how to protect yourself. |
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I AM NOT EXPERIENCED IN MARTIAL ARTS. WHAT CAN YOU OFFER ME? |
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Many of the people training with us are not experienced in other martial arts. Natural learning methods and inclusion of all skill levels in our training means that beginners advance very quickly. |
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SYSTEMA IS MALE DOMINATED, WHY IS THAT? |
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There is no good reason why classes aren't split 50/50 male and female. In fact Systema is far more suited to the female physique and psyche than a lot of other martial arts. To progress in training it is not necessary to have a certain type of build or great strength, which in itself is often a hindrance to progress. Few women train in Systema and this is probably because of its reputation as a military martial art. Also classes can be very physical and there are not the restrictions on contact imposed by other martial arts and sporting activities. However, from a self defence perspective Systema offers a unique and exceedingly practical approach for women. Training is challenging on a number of levels but very rewarding. There is no pressure for anyone in a Systema class to participate in an activity that they are uncomfortable or that is beyond their current limitations. Females training in Systema are able to develop their self-confidence and physical ability in a safe, friendly environment and are welcome in any Systema class. |
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I SAW SOME VIDEOS ON THE INTERNET OF SYSTEMA AND FOUND THEM CONFUSING. |
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Some people are confused initially by the slow training or unusual movement in some of the videos. The internet video out there is footage of actual training, rather than staged or public demonstrations (this is what we are used seeing with other martial arts). Training exercises are performed slowly for learning purposes: experienced practitioners can show you fast work on request.
Unfortunately it is not always easy to see what is actually happening at a glance in a video, you may find experience more informative in this respect. |
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WHAT ABOUT WORK WITHOUT CONTACT? |
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This type of work is less complicated than it seems. It does not involve unseen forces, hypnotism or any other tricks. People generally move because they have a reason to do so - usually to avoid something! It is only a small aspect of a greater subject. |
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SYSTEMA REMINDS ME OF ANOTHER JAPANESE/CHINESE MARTIAL ART; IS SYSTEMA AN ECLECTIC STYLE? |
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The short answer is no. Systema developed independently (some say prior to) Oriental martial arts. However many martial arts have elements in common with, or similar to Systema. The skills you have learnt in other martial arts may be of use in Systema training however. |
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I HAVE HEARD THAT YOU NEED TO BE AN ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN TO PRACTISE/TEACH SYSTEMA. IS THIS TRUE? |
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Systema and the Orthodox Church have been present through a large part of Russian history. The co-existence of Orthodox faith and Russian martial practises can be seen in the many Russian soldiers (Knights) of the Church calendar. Many Systema instructors and practitioners are knowledgeable on matters of Christianity and Christians themselves, which can give a different and deeper understanding of the art. However it is not and has never been a requirement for training in the System.
Please contact us if you have any further questions. |
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