Part of a wider community
Systema is practised throughout the world. While every school develops its own character, instructors and students remain connected through a shared body of principles passed down from Mikhail Ryabko and Vladimir Vasiliev.
East Anglia Systema is one small part of a much larger international community. Whether you are travelling, relocating or simply curious about the wider world of Systema, we encourage students to explore and learn from other schools whenever the opportunity arises.
The international headquarters.
Founded by Vladimir Vasiliev in 1993, Systema Headquarters Toronto played a central role in introducing Systema to the world outside Russia.
Over the past three decades, students from dozens of countries have travelled to Toronto to train, attend seminars and deepen their understanding of the work. The school remains one of the most important centres of Systema training internationally.
Many of today's instructors, including Gareth Ashby and Andy Cefai, have trained extensively there.
The original school.
Mikhail Ryabko founded Systema Headquarters Moscow and devoted his life to studying and teaching the principles that became known throughout the world as Systema.
Drawing on martial traditions, military experience and Orthodox Christian values, he developed a training approach that emphasised breathing, relaxation, natural movement and the cultivation of a healthy body, mind and spirit.
Students travelled from around the world to learn from him, seeking not only practical self-defence skills but also greater health, resilience and understanding of themselves.
Following his repose in the Lord in 2023, his students and instructors continue to share and develop the work to which he dedicated his life.
Today, Systema Headquarters Moscow remains an important part of the wider international Systema community, and Mikhail's teaching continues to influence schools and practitioners throughout the world.
Schools across England, Scotland and Wales.
The UK has a long-established Systema community with schools throughout England, Scotland and Wales. Each school brings its own personality and teaching style while sharing the same foundation in the work of Mikhail Ryabko and Vladimir Vasiliev.
If East Anglia is not convenient for you, there may be a school closer to home. We encourage students to explore and find the training environment that best supports their development.
All affiliated Systema schools worldwide are listed on the official locator maintained by Systema Headquarters Toronto. This is the authoritative source for finding a school certified within the Vasiliev community.
UK schools we know well
Each school below is also listed on the official Systema Headquarters Toronto locator.
An international community.
Today Systema is practised across Europe, North America, South America, Asia and Australia. Thousands of students train regularly in schools ranging from small local groups to large international organisations.
One of the strengths of the Systema community is its openness. Students regularly visit different schools, attend international seminars and learn from a variety of instructors.
A shared principle.
Although schools may differ in style, emphasis and personality, the strongest Systema schools tend to share the same foundation: breathing, relaxation, natural movement, awareness, respect for others and continuous learning.
These principles matter far more than logos, organisations or geography.