Systema / Russian Martial Art
Система
Russian military combative style relying on continuous breath work, biomechanics, and tension release.
Quick Facts
CategoryConcept / Principle
Pronunciation/[sis-teh-mah]/
Alternative NamesRussian Systema, Spetsnaz combat method
Definition
Systema ('The System') operates on four core pillars: breathing, relaxation, body posture, and movement. Popularized by Mikhail Ryabko and Vladimir Vasiliev, it trains fighters to absorb heavy strikes and redirect force effortlessly.
Related Terms
Qi / Ki氣 / 気
Concept of vital life energy and internal breath in Chinese and Japanese martial arts.
Tai Sabaki体さばきArt of fluid whole-body movement to step off the attacker's line of force.
Takedown / Leg AttackTakedownWrestling technique of driving the opponent off balance to the mat by attacking their legs.