What is Systema?
Systema is a devastatingly effective combat system. However it is far more than just a combat system, it develops the person as a whole to create a healthy body and mind capable of functioning clearly in both daily life and times of stress. Systema is a true art which can improve your life, every single day.
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Systema is surprising because it does not have techniques. Movement is spontaneous and natural. Systema achieves this by teaching four core principles:
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Relaxation
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Fluid movement
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Breathing
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Posture / body structure
Many arts preach relaxation, but the difference with Systema is that it actually teaches you how to relax. This skill alone can help reduce the stress and tension in your body, all day, every day. There is never an end destination with relaxation, it is an ongoing journey of gradually increasing awareness of yourself. Stripping away tension in one place merely lets you see more clearly the tension you are holding somewhere else. But with every bit of tension you shed from your body, you feel better.
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We have breathed every minute of every day since we were born, so it could be argued, what is there to learn about breathing? However learning how to control your breathing can help you manage fear, stress and tension. It can also make you function more efficiently in physical activity and recover quicker.
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To summarize Systema it is best left to Vladimir, to quote him directly, "the body has to be free of tension, filled with endurance, flexibility, effortless movement and explosive potential. The spirit or psychological state has to be calm, free of anger, irritation, fear, self-pity, delusion and pride. The combat skill includes movements that are powerful and precise, instant and economical, spontaneous, subtle and diverse, the signature of a true professional".
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Systema is a Russian martial art with roots dating back to the 10th century. Banned by the Communists in Russia in 1917 but reserved for a few Special Operations Units in the military and intelligence because they realized how devastatingly effective it was. Brought to the attention of the wider world by the masters, Mikhail Ryabko and Vladimir Vasiliev. It aims to create a truly rounded warrior by developing combat skill, a healthy body and a strong spirit. A more complete description of Systema is available on Vladimir Vasiliev's website, RussianMartialArt.com.
Lakes systema - traininG
At Lakes Systema we aim to provide great training in a relaxed, friendly and safe environment. There is no formal etiquette, no bowing etc, just mutual respect between good people. There are no grades and no uniform. Just turn up in whatever you want, but comfortable flexible or loose clothing and trainers are probably best!
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You decide how hard to push yourself and if you want to stop to take a breather and have a drink, feel free.
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We train both indoors and outdoors to give you a broad experience in different environments.
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Come along and give it a try, you have nothing to lose. Drop me a message, an email or give me a ring if you want any further details.
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instructor- mike cameron
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systema hq certified instructor
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3rd dan Aikido
It was in 2012 at a seminar in Windsor that I first saw Vladimir Vasiliev in person. I was totally amazed at his effortless, relaxed ability and how devastatingly effective Systema could be. While I came away a bit battered and bruised (due to my total lack of understanding at that point), I was hooked.
Since then I have got on as many seminars as I could and trained with Vladimir Vasiliev, Mikhail Ryabko, Martin Wheeler, the Zettler Twins and Matt Hill. Training with many wonderful people from around the world in halls, fields and far flung Swedish forests! I was certified as a Systema Instructor by Vladimir Vasiliev and now want to help others experience the health and combat benefits of Systema.
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I have trained in Aikido for over 20 years under Sensei George Forbes. The style of Aikido we practice is very compatible with Systema, because it is based on teachings, learning how to move your body instead of fixed techniques. I will not be teaching Aikido at Lakes Systema, however if you want to practice a great style of Aikido, contact George at Furness Aikido.
Systema Outdoors
Systema is great to practice inside, but it is amazing to do it outdoors, in fields, streets, car parks, hills or the forest. The fresh air, natural light and space bring a totally different aspect to training.
You really feel alive and it's so much more real. Because in the real world, the floor like life is not one beautifully flat matted, soft surface to catch you; its full of pot holes, tripping hazards and obstacles to walk into!
If you train in the real world, you can take the real world in your stride when it bites back.
