The origins of Systema : a Russian martial art with multiple influences
- Systema Lauragais & Self-Défense
- 10 août
- 9 min de lecture
Unique in many ways, the origins of Systema are rooted in a rich and fascinating history. Evolving over the centuries, it is the result of a fusion between Russian combat traditions, Soviet military innovations, and influences from the Orthodox Christian faith. Systema is a Russian martial art based on principles rather than techniques. Today, it is taught worldwide, standing out for its fluidity, adaptability, and focus on personal development.
The historical roots of Systema
Systema is rooted in the combat techniques of medieval Slavic warriors like the Bogatyrs and Cossacks, renowned for their bravery and instinctive approach.
These techniques, adapted to Russia's diverse terrains and extreme conditions, allowed warriors to face invaders in various situations. They relied on mental strength, innovative tactics, and great versatility, forming the basis of the modern Systema's natural and free combat style.
However, the connection between ancient combat methods and contemporary Systema is controversial. Some historians believe that this link is partly mythical, amplified by Soviet nationalism. Documentation on the continuity between ancient Russian martial arts and Systema is limited, and the presumed relationships might result from disinformation by Soviet secret services, aiming to tie Soviet creations to traditional Russian heritage. In reality, Systema as we know it is primarily a 20th-century invention, making it difficult to establish clear links with older practices.
Thus, historians prefer to see Systema as a synthesis of diverse influences and a more recent evolution, rather than a direct continuation of ancient Russian and Slavic warriors' techniques. However, despite the lack of consensus on a direct connection between the Cossacks and modern Russian martial arts, their influence is undeniable. The movement of populations in these regions shaped combat methods suited for clashes with other peoples, as well as survival in diverse topographies.
Systema Under the Communist Regime
After the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, the communist regime repressed traditional martial arts. Systema was then restricted to elite divisions of the Soviet forces, such as the Spetsnaz (Special Forces). Classified as top secret, it was reserved strictly for martial use and served to protect high-ranking Soviet officials, including Stalin. Its development occurred alongside military and sports sambo, under the aegis of government organizations like the NKVD (later the KGB).
During this time, Systema evolved by integrating psychophysiological techniques focused on kinesthetic sensitivity and body awareness, allowing extreme discretion in combat. The Soviet approach emphasized pragmatism and efficiency, and the secrecy surrounding Systema contributed to its mystery and confined development.
Samoz and Sambo : two systems of combat that influence Systema
Modern Systema is the result of intensive research conducted by generations of Soviet close-combat instructors from the 1920s to the 1980s, during the Soviet era. During this period, two systems developed in parallel: Samoz and Sambo.
The term Sambo, meaning "Self-defense without weapons system," is an abbreviation that reflects the essence of this combat system created by Viktor Spiridonov. In contrast, Samoz was a term used by Spiridonov and his early students before "Sambo" became the official name, serving as the first step in formalizing this self-defense system.
Sambo : a recognized self-defense system
Sambo is a self-defense system developed in the 1920s by Viktor Spiridonov in collaboration with Vasili Oshchepkov and Anatoly Kharlampiev. Officially recognized as a sport, it combines elements of boxing, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and real-world combat techniques. This system stands out for its pragmatic approach, aiming to be accessible to everyone, regardless of size or physical condition. With established competitions and rules, Sambo has gained international recognition. By emphasizing efficiency, speed, and adaptability, it has become a respected martial art, integrated into military and civilian training programs.
Samoz : the early stages of a system
Samoz refers to the early ideas and techniques developed by Viktor Spiridonov before the adoption of the name Sambo. While Samoz laid the foundation for what would become Sambo, it did not enjoy the same recognition or formalization as the latter. Samoz represented an experimental phase where Spiridonov tested and refined his self-defense methods.
Commonalities and differences between Samoz and Sambo
Both systems share common origins, with Viktor Spiridonov as the central figure. Both emphasize the effectiveness and adaptability of combat techniques. However, the main difference lies in their status: Sambo is a structured system recognized internationally, while Samoz represents an exploratory phase, lacking the same formalization or official recognition.
Systema’s eclectic approach
Influenced by Samoz and Sambo, Systema shares an adaptive approach aimed at maximizing efficiency. Systema emphasizes the economy of movement, biomechanics, and minimal energy use. This combat style stands out for its versatility and lack of formal techniques, favoring improvisation and quick reactions.
Systema's revival after the cold war
After the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991, Systema evolved beyond the military realm, becoming accessible to the general public. Three main schools of thought emerged, each enriching Systema with its perspective : Mikhail Ryabko, Alexei Kadochnikov, and Vadim Starov. Though they share common roots in Russian martial arts and military experience, their approaches notably differ in philosophy and methodology.
The Ryabko Systema
Mikhail Ryabko, trained from childhood by one of Stalin’s bodyguards and a member of the Spetsnaz at 15, offers a holistic approach to Systema. His method combines combat training with wellness practices, incorporating elements like cold-water exercises and “healing” strikes, based on the principle of “Know thyself” (Poznai Sebia). Together with his student, Vladimir Vasiliev, Ryabko developed an adaptable Systema that focuses on relaxation, breathing, and natural movements. This approach does not rely on codified techniques but rather on fundamental principles that allow practitioners to react instinctively to adversity, transforming Systema into a true way of life.
The Kadochnikov method
Alexei Kadochnikov, a former combat diver officer and physicist-engineer, developed a version of Systema in the 1960s with a scientific approach. His method integrates biomechanics, mathematics, and psychology, designed to adapt to various combat situations, even allowing weakened individuals to defend themselves effectively against stronger adversaries. Beyond combat, Kadochnikov’s Systema includes training in survival, obstacle navigation, mapping, and military preparation. Tested in real-world conditions by special forces, this method aims to improve mastery of both body and mind, optimizing every movement for maximum efficiency.
The Spetsnaz military Systema
Vadim Starov developed Systema Spetsnaz with a focus on the military combat techniques used by the Russian special forces, Spetsnaz. His pragmatic approach emphasizes the psychology of confrontation, joint manipulation, and precise strikes, aimed at quickly neutralizing an opponent. Unlike the more intuitive methods of Ryabko or the more scientific approach of Kadochnikov, Spetsnaz Systema is designed to provide an immediate advantage in high-stress conditions. Less oriented towards personal development, it remains a favored system for military and security forces due to its practical and direct applications.
Despite their differences, these three schools share a common goal: to train men and women to adapt to any conflict situation with intelligence and efficiency. They illustrate the richness and diversity of Russian martial heritage, offering complementary perspectives within this unique combat art.
Philosophy and spiritual aspects of Systema
Systema stands out for its approach based on fundamental principles such as breathing, relaxation, structure, and movement. Practitioners learn to harmonize their mind and body by integrating these principles into every action. This method allows them to react more instinctively and efficiently.
These four principles, at the heart of training, optimize combat performance but also promote better management of stressful situations in daily life, helping maintain calm in moments of conflict. Practitioners learn to remain clear-headed, respond fluidly and naturally, and use these skills to improve their inner peace.
Systema’s spiritual impact is manifested in personal development and inner balance. Practitioners strive to achieve a symbiosis between their body and mind, leading to a more conscious and measured life. The practice also encourages humility and self-reflection, promoting a respectful and compassionate approach, even in combat situations.
In summary, Systema offers a profound individual journey, aiming not only to extend combat skills but also to develop stability between body and mind, enriching practitioners' lives on multiple levels.
Systema around the world : a discipline on the rise
Today, Systema has transcended its military origins and has spread internationally, captivating a growing civilian audience. Its unique philosophy, based on mastery of the body, mind, and emotions, makes it a singular martial art. But where is it practiced, and how has it spread ?
Russia : Systema is still taught in military settings and to special forces. Although its civilian practice has expanded, it maintains a patriotic dimension in Russia, respected for its formidable effectiveness. Instructors in Russia remain faithful to the original techniques while adapting them to modern needs.
Canada : One of the key figures in Systema, Vladimir Vasiliev, has played a crucial role in spreading this discipline outside of Russia. His school, based in Toronto, has become a major training hub for those wishing to delve into this martial art. Thanks to him, Canada has become a nerve center for Systema, attracting practitioners from around the world.
United States : Systema has seen impressive growth in the United States, with schools and seminars in numerous cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Maryland. Instructors like Jim Eglin impart the teachings of Vladimir Vasiliev, emphasizing values of relaxation, fluidity of movement, and stress management.
Europe : Systema is steadily gaining ground across Europe, with several countries adopting the discipline, including France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. Seminars and workshops are regularly organized. In France, for instance, Systema is growing in popularity, appealing to practitioners who are drawn to its unconventional approach to martial arts, focused on self-control and breathing. Instructors such as Jacques Lecomte (Maksimtsov Systema) and Jerome Kadian (Talanov Systema) regularly offer seminars in France.
Oceania : A new wave of practitioners is emerging in Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia, with Systema thriving in this region. The expansion of Systema in Oceania reflects the discipline's growing international reputation, attracting those seeking a unique and profound approach to martial arts. With seminars and workshops regularly organized, the appeal of this practice continues to grow, emphasizing not only combat efficiency but also personal development and stress management in everyday life.
Asia : Although still relatively new in certain parts of Asia, Systema is beginning to attract more attention, especially in countries like Japan, China, and South Korea, where martial arts have long been deeply rooted in the culture. The philosophical dimension of Systema, with its emphasis on balance, breathing, and fluidity, resonates with the values of Eastern martial arts such as Tai Chi, Aikido, and Kung Fu. As a result, it is gradually carving a place among practitioners looking for an alternative to traditional martial arts.
The future of Systema
Systema's adaptability and the diverse approaches offered by different schools give it significant potential for growth. It stands out in the martial arts world thanks to its non-technical and principle-based training, focusing on mastering the self rather than just mastering techniques. This unique aspect allows practitioners from various backgrounds and skill levels to benefit from it, whether they are seasoned fighters, security professionals, or individuals simply seeking personal development and stress management.
In an increasingly fast-paced world filled with external pressures, the values of relaxation, self-control, and inner balance that Systema promotes are becoming more relevant. It is more than just a combat method—it is a tool for improving one’s quality of life, helping individuals navigate their daily challenges with greater calm, focus, and awareness.
The future of Systema lies not only in its continued application in the military sphere but also in its potential as a civilian practice. With instructors and schools popping up globally, seminars being organized in various languages, and a growing interest from different cultural contexts, the art of Systema is positioned to be more than just a niche discipline. As more people discover its benefits—physical, mental, and spiritual—Systema could very well become a mainstream practice in the martial arts community.
A martial art for the modern world
Systema is more than a combat art; it is a path to personal mastery. Whether one approaches it from the perspective of self-defense, health improvement, or spiritual growth, it offers tools to harmonize the body and mind. Its principle-based approach transcends the limits of traditional martial arts, providing practitioners with the freedom to adapt to any situation.
The Ryabko, Kadochnikov, and Spetsnaz methods represent the different facets of this rich and complex discipline, offering choices for those seeking a unique blend of martial expertise and personal development. As Systema continues to grow in popularity, it has the potential to redefine how people think about martial arts—not just as a way to fight, but as a way to live.
In a world where stress and conflict are part of everyday life, Systema offers an innovative and empowering approach to dealing with these challenges. Through the principles of breathing, relaxation, movement, and structure, it helps individuals achieve balance, develop resilience, and cultivate a deep sense of inner peace—qualities that are invaluable both in combat and in life.
Why don't you try the experience of Systema and discover where the way brings you ?