SYSTEMA:
Footage below of Secret Spetznas training facility.
Systema was once classified and secret.
There are no set stances in Systema.
Systema emphasizes proper breathing. Before you learn how to fight you learn how to breath.
Systema can be used to fight off multiple attackers
It involves a 3-dimensional free-flow approach to fighting
Systema is improvisational, relaxed, use any move that flows
The direction of punch relates to direction you want to send your attacker
Many Spetznas see themselves as Russian Orthodox warriors who exist to fight for family, country and God.
Systema has its roots in Cossack fighting – the original special forces. A style of “dance fighting” that influenced systema. Little is known about it’s roots. It was passed down from Cossack to Cossack. When the attacker hits the ground THEY ALWAYS FINISH THEM.
They say Cossacks are born with a “bullet in their mouth.” They learn to fight before they can walk. Religion was important. Children were taught to be afraid of no one except God.
At Assoff a force of 3,000 defeated 300,000 Turks in the 16th century. Built underground tunnels.
There is an Old Cossack game to teach not to be afraid of the knife and be familiar with the weapon. One person lies down while the other drops the knife on your bare chest.
Cossacks would train blindfolded, relying on breathing and instinct to fend off multiple attackers. The figure-eight movement is important to the success of he exercise.
1. GO WARRIOR: Systema
Part I: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pLenMxdOo5A
Part II: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NhB9pvbLZLs&feature=related
Part III: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06MyusE02h8&feature=PlayList&p=AD18814ECCF1AAE0&index=2
2. Good General Systema site: http://russianmartialart.com/
3. Certified Systema Instructors in LA:
Los Angeles School of Russian Martial Art
Martin Wheeler, Jacob Goldblatt
(323) 401-5757
List of Other Instructors by state:
http://russianmartialart.com/main.php?page=affiliates&loc=us
Russian Style:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pm4olaKe5cc&feature=related