Spotlight on: Calgary Systema

Services offered: Systema is a Russian martial art formerly reserved for the Russian Special Forces, Spetsnaz. It is a combat survival system that emphasizes natural movement and reaction, conditioning and a holistic view of the individual practitioner. Breathing, posture, relaxation and constant movement are the main principles informing all aspects of Systema. Conditioning exercises that focus on tendons, ligaments and muscle development make up the fitness side of this discipline. Unlike traditional martial arts, Systema has no prearranged forms or patterns to memorize. Techniques are learned through an in-depth study of an individual’s natural body movement and reactions. Systema has a motto: Know yourself. This voyage of self-discovery is made through identifying one’s fears and self-imposed limitations. Learning to push back these boundaries and overcome fear leads to an increase in self-confidence and knowledge of one’s physical, psychological and emotional core. Average class sizes are 15 to 20 people and training is open to anyone 15 years of age or older. Specialty: Self-defence, conditioning and overall health. Fitness tip: Learning to breathe correctly allows better control of one’s physical and psychological capabilities. The main conditioning exercises in Systema are pushups, sit-ups and squats done in a way that is unique to Systema training and with emphasis on proper breathing. Owner/operator: Calgary classes are taught by Systema senior instructor Dmitry Grygoryev. Address: Classes are offered every Monday and Wednesday evening at Cedarbrae Community Centre, 11024 Oakfield Dr. S.W. A number of seminars are also held throughout the year at various venues. Contact information: 403-714-3525 or visit calgarysystema.com.