London Systema training

Training:

Here are some of the principles that we explore during the private one to one training and group sessions.

With the Breath

In Russian Systema the work with breath flows into deep terrain. It can be used to improve one’s efficiency in self defence and it has practical applications in other areas of life. This breath training offers a profound road into self exploration. We cover ways of using breathing to calm the body and psyche; removing various forms of stress. Also explored are the ways breathing can be used to increase awareness, energise the body and hone tactics. It can help us to adapt to the movement, pace and rhythm of the environments we enter. Systema’s breath work is also used to prepare the body for deeper levels of training.

Relaxation Work

One of the most unique aspects found in some of the Russian martial arts is their understanding of relaxation and how it can be used to enhance our mind set, our physical state, movement skills and our ability to protect ourselves. In these times, there are many enemies of relaxation that cause stress and tension for people. This training is designed to help people overcome various forms of tension that manifest in the body or in the conscious mind. When mind and body are relaxed, a person can enjoy a greater sense of well being. This unique training can make people feel calmer not just during the training, but also in the workplace and within their social environment.

Unarmed Tactics

Through training, students can connect with useful attributes such as timing, mobility, and the ability to adapt to unexpected events. At the same time, many are inspired to learn how to protect themselves. In training using highly effective tactics, we cover ways of countering an array of different attacks such as: strikes, grabs, holds and takedowns. The art connects with a truly diverse range of close quarter tactics. In training, don’t expect to see people throwing fancy kicks or throws based on extreme muscular prowess. The tactics are rely more on natural body movement, an understanding of the body and the ability to flow with the moment. Students also get a chance to familiarise themselves with the different strategies that aggressors may use; so that they can be better prepared to protect themselves.

Intuitive Training

In Systema, rather than study overly complex step by step techniques against a set attack, the emphasis is on spontaneity and an ability to flow with the unexpected. Students get to explore the tactics and movements that work for their body type. They are shown how to access the free flowing intuitive mind instead of relying on a more restrictive, overly analytical approach. The sense of freedom and creativity found in this approach makes training interesting and fun.

How to Avoid Conflict

Conflict avoidance has various levels and it is regarded as an important subject. In training we explore ways of moving in a non antagonistic way and how to recognise and avoid those actions that can cause hostility to be unleashed. We also look at the ways awareness can be increased and the things that jeopardise awareness. Other principles include conflict negotiation, disengagement, and escape.

View video clips from training