Plain answers to common first questions.
If you have never trained a martial art before, or have been away from one for a while, start here. The answers below cover the questions we get most often.
Do I need any fitness or experience to start?
No. Systema is breath-led and slow. Your first class will not push you beyond what your body can comfortably do. Most beginners are surprised by how unstrained the work feels, and by how much they have done by the end of two hours.
What should I wear and bring?
Loose clothes you can move in, ideally long sleeves and trousers. Bare feet or soft training shoes. A bottle of water. That is all.
Is the first class really free?
Yes. We do not ask for payment, a card, or a commitment. Come, train, and decide afterwards.
How fit will I need to be?
Systema is scaled by breath. If your breath is calm, you are working at the right intensity. If your breath spikes, you slow down. The art makes its own pace possible for the room you are in.
Will I be hurt or thrown around?
No. Class is cooperative. Students train each other up, not down. Falling and recovering are part of the work, but they are taught carefully and built up slowly. Many older students train without injury for many years.
I am older. Can I still start?
Yes. Some of our most respected senior students started in middle age. Systema is gentle on joints, friendly to people working with injury, and built on the kind of natural movement that supports longevity.
I have done karate or BJJ before. Will I be bored?
No. Cross-trainers from other arts often find Systema the most patient teacher they have met. The breath work alone is worth the commute. The deeper work on structure and pressure rewards years of study.
How do I pay for ongoing classes?
Class fees are paid in cash to Gareth at class, on a monthly basis. There is no website payment for classes. The website handles seminar bookings only.
Do you have a women-only class?
Not at present. Our classes are mixed and the work is cooperative, calm, and respectful. If you would like to come to a class with a friend or partner, you are very welcome.