Systema is the Russian body movement and health practice developed to be a system of adaptation towards the environment as well as a martial art. The basic approach of Systema is to practice relaxation, continuity of movement, and uninterrupted breathing even in extreme circumstances. That's why a Systema combat will look very smooth and fluent, almost kind in nature and not aggressive at all. Lots of exercises train stamina and pain resistance, as well as the way to direct and use energy efficiently with with the minimum effort.
Systema was originally developed by GRU (Government Intelligence Bureau special forces) and tested in real combat. It has elements from various Oriental martial art practices, like Jiu-Jitsu and Aikido, but most instructors will tell you that Systema is derived from ancient Russian martial arts, especially the ones practiced by Cossacks. During the end of 90s and the beginning of 2000 Systema became very popular around the world, especially in Canada, USA and France, mainly thanks to the efforts of Vladimir Vasiliev Systema instructor in Canada (who was a student of Mikhail Ryabko) as well as various other practitioners around the globe.
Systema has different branches, but the most popular one at the moment is Systema Ryabko, named after the instructor Mikhail Ryabko. His instructors run daily classes at the Moscow Systema HQ every morning and every evening (most classes have English speaking instructors). Located in the building of Russian Ministry of Internal affairs, Systema HQ is also blessed by the Russian Orthodox Church. They also have nice Systema training T-shirts and DVDs on sale. You can also try another version of Systema, developed by Valentin Talanov at Systema Talanov Moscow school.
To get to Systema Moscow HQ, walk behind the train station to Skakovaya street, when you reach the building 36, walk until the very end of it until you see the entrance - tell the security guards you’re going to Systema. Daily classes at 10.00 to 12.00 and 19.00 to 21.00 (except Sat & Sun), health classes 13.30-15.00 (Wed), 14.30-16.00 (Sat), 19.00-23.00 (Fri). Contact: ryabko@mail.ru for more information.
