Systema is a martial art that emphasizes relaxation, breathing, natural movement and adaptability under pressure. Training develops the ability to move, strike and respond from neutral, awkward or compromised positions, to generate power without excessive tension, and to absorb or redirect force through breathing and movement. It also develops sensitivity through contact, helping practitioners read balance, structure, tension and changes in movement. As self-defence, it trains for unrestricted situations, covering strikes and kicks, throws and locks, knife work, and defence against multiple attackers. The goal is calm, adaptive and efficient movement in all situations. Much of the training is exploratory, using techniques and drills to develop broader attributes such as body awareness, timing, mobility, calmness and efficient power generation. Systema also places value on health, longevity and recovery.

The approach and teaching style in Systema are quite different from traditional martial arts, and difficult to describe verbally. Take a look at these videos by Ilan from Inside Fighting in an interview with Vladimir Vasiliev, a main figure in Systema, where he explains concisely the main ideas and basic principles on which Systema is based.