Systema is a Russian martial art.
Principles and practices for the survival, protection and development of your tribe.
At Systema, you’ll…
Control your fear
Learn to manage violent encounters
Build resilience, strengthen mind and body
Join a committed tribe
Our work develops…
Combat skills — Striking, grappling, knife defence…
Emotional state control — Managing yourself under pressure
Awareness — Detect threats before they’re problems
Freedom — In mind and body
About the classes
When are classes?
Every Wednesday evening,
19.00 - 20.30
Where are classes?
We change venue regularly. At present, we train in a gym in the City of London.
Closest Tube stations:
Liverpool Street (5 min walk)
Monument (8 min walk)
How much are classes?
Drop in £25
10-pack £180
FAQs
What is Systema?
It’s a Russian system of restoring balance, of being mindful under any circumstances, of healing yourself and others. It’s a system with the tested and realistic tools that are customised for you. These tools are used to control your emotions, your movement, and help you better interact with the world. It is different from other “mind, body and soul” exercise programs in two ways: first, the movement is customised for you, and it is not a “repeat after me” approach. Second, because so much work is done with the partner that keeps you honest, it is much harder to deceive yourself.
If you prefer a simpler answer- it’s a Russian martial art where the main principles of Breathing, Movement, Good Posture and Tension Awareness rest on the platform of Emotional State. These principles allow you to do your own thing, and not be dragged into another person’s game during the physical encounter.
Shorter answer still: it’s a set of tools for you to get to Know Yourself.
What should I wear to class?
Anything you are comfortable in. For most of us, it is a t-shirt, trainers (sneakers for our american friends:-) and either shorts or “longs”.
How long does it take?
How long does what take? What are your goals? What are you prepared to do to achieve them?
We think that if you train once a week, you will notice pretty interesting changes after about 20 hours of instruction. You will discover much more in a year or two.
Will I get hit in class?
Yes, if you want to. There is regular contact in class. The strikes are done with utmost respect for the partner.
No one will hit you if you choose not to participate in the striking drills, and the strikes you receive are never more than what you ask for. Senior students quite often ask their partner to hit harder, and you may very well be interested in the higher intensity- that choice is yours, and no pressure is ever applied to anyone to “turn it up”.
I have no martial arts experience. Can I handle it?
You train at your own level, not at someone else’s. Our expectations are reasonable, and we hope you don’t expect miracles of yourself after one training session! Yes, you can handle the training. The more experienced students are happy to work with beginners and guide them and support them.
I have lots of martial arts experience. Can I learn something from you?
We all learn something every day of our lives… Come and say hello, we’re always glad to see visitors. But if you walk into a class thinking you already know everything- why walk into a class?
Are private lessons available?
Yes, private training can be arranged. After the initial discussion via email we will arrange a meeting to discuss your goals, abilities, expectations. In addition to the hourly rate, the student is expected to cover the expenses such as travel and hall hire.
