About Systema

There is a reason why the Russian Martial Art is called Systema.

It is a complete set of concepts and training components designed to enhance one's life. In this case, acquiring the martial art skill is a way to improve the function of all seven physiological systems of the body and all three levels of human abilities; the physical, the psychological, and the spiritual.

The key principle of the Russian System is non-destruction. The goal is to make sure that your training and your attitudes do no damage to the body or the psyche of you or your training partners. Ultimately, the fundamental goal of Systema is to create, build and strengthen your body, your psyche, your family, and your country.

As a fighting style, Systema can include just about everything - from ground work and wrestling, to striking, to defence against multiple attackers, to unarmed defence against weapons. It truly has something for everyone!

History Of Systema

The Russian style of martial art dates back to the 10th century.

Throughout history, Russia has had to repel invaders from the north, south, east, and west, with each attacker bringing their own distinct styles of combat and weaponry. The battles took place on different terrain, during freezing winters and sweltering summer heat alike, with the Russians often greatly outnumbered by the enemy forces.

As a result of these factors, the Russian warriors acquired a style that combined strong spirit with extremely innovative and versatile tactics that were at the same time practical, deadly, and effective against any type of enemy, and under any circumstances. The style was natural and free, with no strict rules, rigid structure or limitations (except for moral ones). The style was (and indeed still is) based on instinctive reactions, individual strengths and characteristics, and is designed for fast learning.

When the Communists came to power in 1917, they suppressed all national traditions. Those found practicing the centuries-old style of martial art were severely punished. However, the authorities quickly realised the viability and potency of the Russian Martial Art and thus reserved it just for a few Special Operations Units, otherwise known as the Spetsnaz - the elite of the elite.

Modern Founders of Systema
Mikhail Ryabko

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Colonel of the Special Operations Unit with the Russian Military, Chief Instructor of tactical training for the Emergency Response Team, Advisor to the Supreme Judge of the Russian Federation.

Mikhail Ryabko was trained from the age of five by one of Stalin's personal bodyguards, and was inducted to Spetsnaz at the age of fifteen. He has been a tactical commander of hostage-rescue teams, counter-terrorist operations, and armed criminal neutralization. Mikhail resides in Moscow, holds the rank of Colonel and serves as a Special Advisor to the Supreme Judge of the Russian Federation. He continues to train his many students as the Master Teacher of Systema. He has authored a textbook on Tactics of Special Operations. He has been in numerous military campaigns and holds many government medals and awards.

Vladimir Vasiliev

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Director and Chief Instructor of Systema Headquarters.

Born in Russia, Vladimir received intense training from the top Special Operations Units instructors and is the top student of Mikhail Ryabko. Vladimir's work spans across 10 years of extensive service with the Special Operations Unit. He also served as trainer for elite units, SWAT teams, and bodyguards, Vladimir moved to Canada, and in 1993 founded the first school of Russian Martial Art outside of Russia - Systema Headquarters. He has since personally trained and certified well over 300 qualified Russian Martial Art instructors and schools worldwide, and has provided an Award-Winning instructional film collection.
For more information, please visit http://www.russianmartialart.com/

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