Systema is an intuitive and adaptive system for self-defence and health: conditioning the body, refining the mind and the emotions and teaching natural movement. It allows one to control dangerous situations without brutality but decisively and with an effectiveness that can be deadly if required. Systema has deep internal components that refine the character and elevate the spirit while also providing a refreshing workout. Relaxation, breathing, posture and free movement are core principles learned through conditioning, drills and free practice. Specific moves are also practiced, but there are no fixed “kata” as such.

The Russian words in the logo at left translate to “Strength, Courage, Humility.”

Whether you have a background in self-defence and combat or not, Systema is an ideal art to practice. Those with experience in martial arts, the military, fire and emergency or law enforcement will find the psychological dimensions of Systema especially useful in their work.

Systema is a martial art and not a sport. So the objective in training is to help each other become more efficient, skilful and refined as human beings. Therefore, we do not practice competitive sparring. The situations we find ourselves in class can sometimes be highly physically and emotionally taxing, but the objective is not to “best” our partner or to do damage. We are interested in doing what is necessary to end the fight safely, and to survive dangerous situations. So we do not limit ourselves to the kinds of rules found in competitive sports, nor do we think of ourselves as being, or becoming, better than anyone else. Those looking for such limited training may want to go elsewhere.

All skill levels are welcome to train and help each other grow in any class and we do not have ranks or belt testing. At present we have one-and-a-half-hour classes every Tuesday and Thursday. If you would like to get an idea of how our classes feel, you are welcome to try two classes for an introductory rate. If you do decide to start Systema, we recommend that you make a commitment of a year to really begin to appreciate the depth and breath of this system. Shorter commitments of six months or three months are also available.