by Devon McNeely
Here are 10 interesting facts about the art of Systema:
1. Systema literally means “the System” in Russian.
2. Systema is the name for a group of Martial arts that came out of Russia in the ’90s and were pretty much unknown to the rest of the world before the fall of the soviet union.
3. The style is said to date back to the 10th Century. The name Systema was first used in 1962.
3. Training in Systema focuses on hand-to-hand combat and grappling as well as training with and against knives and firearms.
4. Understanding and learning about your own strengths and weaknesses is an important aspect of Systema. Another name for the art is “poznai sebia” meaning “Know Yourself”.
5. There is an internal spiritual side to Systema based on Russian Orthodox Christianity. This religious aspect is not needed to benefit from the physical training or techniques.
6. One key training method for Systema is practicing static and dynamic breathing. Separating the breathing technique from the other physical actions, allows you to remain calm and in control regardless of the current situation.
7. Techniques are often used against what they call the five levers of the body: the neck, the shoulders, the elbows, the waist, and the ankles.
8. Movements in Systema are designed to be natural and flowing allowing for power to be used with unconventional movements. The theory behind this style of movement is to be effective regardless of the position you end up in.
9. The relaxed and subtle movements also act to hide one’s intention thus not telegraphing any techniques.
10. Training involves drills on movement, striking, breathing, grappling, weapons, and situational awareness. Unlike traditional Asian styles, there are no strict forms or katas.