Systema  ⚙  York

What is Systema?

Systema is a martial art that teaches self-defence in real-life situations through relaxed and highly efficient movement. Practitioners learn to protect themselves instinctively from falls, kicks, punches, grappling attacks, weapons, and multiple attackers. Training starts with practising synchronisation of breath and movement, removal of excess tension in the body, improving balance, flexibility, core strength, and awareness. Exercises are free-flowing and often purposefully intense to practise relaxation and control under strain and discomfort. Defence works through absorption, redirection, and breaking of physical energy through short, coordinated movements, accompanied by abrupt counterattacks at structural weak points of the opponent.

Systema differs from other martial arts in that it is based on principles of movement rather than specific techniques. Unlike combat sports such as boxing, kickboxing, grappling, or mixed martial arts, which take place within fixed rules and contexts, Systema prepares for situations where no such limitations exist. In a real fight, you do not know who your opponent is, when the fight starts, how many people are involved, whether weapons are present, or even whether lighting or space allows clear vision and movement.

Breath control is crucial to reduce tension, relaxation helps control stress, and hides strikes from the opponent's view. These principles apply to all defensive situations. We use blunt knives and sticks, among others, to practise defence against melee weapons. Systema is suitable for men and women of all ages. We train as partners, with the goal to help each other learn and grow in strength, calm, courage, and spirit. There are no ranks, katas, or belt examinations.