Systema - Russian Martial Art

Systema is an ancient Russian style of martial art. It dates back to the 10th century!

Systema can also be called by another name, “ponzai sebia” which means “know yourself”. This principle incorporates what Systema is all about. One of its core values is “non-destruction”, and like many other martial arts, it’s not just a workout, it’s a lifestyle.

Throughout Russia’s history, invaders would appear from all possible directions, perpetually trying to conquer the land and people. In constant conflict with Russians, these attackers would have distinctively different strategies, weaponry, and styles of combat. Over time, the Russian warriors were able to develop a versatile and innovative set of combat tactics that were not only practical, but they worked.

With the onset of Communism, which began in 1917, many of Russia’s traditions were suppressed. The way of fighting developed by the Russian warriors of old became not only prohibited, but people caught practicing it were severally punished. As the authorities noticed how efficient this way of fighting was, they reserved the right for one small group to be allowed to practice such techniques. Within the Spetsnaz or Voiska Spetsialnogo Naznachenia — which stands for the Russian Special Forces — there are a few Special Operations Units that would be assigned high risk tasks. Those soldiers went under a tough, arduous and intense training, and would become the modern masters of this traditional style of fighting.

Watch this video demonstration to get an idea of what Systema looks like in the real world:

For more information on this style of fighting, check out their website.