HOW DO I BECOME A CERTIFIED SYSTEMA INSTRUCTOR?
FIND OUT ABOUT OUR 2011 CERTIFICATION CAMP
First, ask yourself, is Combat Systema right for me? Members of The International Combat Systema Association are dedicated to:
1-Research and Experimentation: No mysticism. No bunk. We only care about studying to find out what works and why. We believe the style should constantly improve and clarify based on evidence and stud--not preference, aesthetic concers, philosophy or loyalty to traditions.
2-A Multi-Dimensional Educational Approaches: Everyone is different. The days of the master standing at the front of the class and spewing doctrine or wowing the crowds with their ability are done. An instructor's fighting skills do not transfer to a student. Their teaching skills however do. We believe in creating an environment that appeals to all learning styles, combining visual demonstrations and explanation, written material, illustrations, multi-media, group discussion, explorative physical work, and mindful play.
3-Progressive Rehearsal Drilling: We've all heard the old nugget that "you fight the way you train" but what are you doing about it? Combat Systema is dedicated to isolating skills down to their basic mechanics, improving and rehearsing these skills not through rote memorization or blind repetition, but through free-flowing, dynamic limitation drills that train adaptability from the foundation of training. From there, we integrate these skills with intelligence and specific objectives into integrated skill progressions, building body intelligence, improving reflexes and reducing fear in the student.
4-Pressure Testing: This is a big one for us. Many people use the term, but what do we mean. In Combat Systema, pressure testing means including measured degrees of appropriate resistance. This involves giving the student enough resistance to elevate their game but not so much that they get shut down and discouraged. It means allowing them to win but making them work for it. It means opening their eyes to varied unorthodox attacks, tactics and realities through reistant isolation and opportunity drills, evolving towards full simulation. Safety is always our first concern. We are not just cavemen beating on each other. But, long term safety means that we make sure we are also constantly deconstructing delusions and affirming reality in bite size pieces the student can digest.
5-Debriefing and Assessment: So often missing in both the traditional martial arts and modern combatives domains, Combat Systema believes in open sharing and discussion, analysis of lessons learned and group growth.
6-Enlightened Repetition: Repetition is not the mother of skill. Mindful, enlightened repetition is the mother of skill. Practice does not make perfect if what you are practicing is fundamentally flawed. We believe in constantly revisiting the basics with newfound information and intelligence from the training cycle.
7-Community: We believe that no one has all the answers. We are against power structures or hierarchies that advocate masters, gurus, or other forms of idol worship. Every member of our group is an equal warrior on the path to self-discovery. The truth and learning that can come from open sharing far outweighs anything that can be acquired in blind obedience. If you can leave your ego at the door, admit when you don't know something and if you believe that education is a journey and not a destination, Combat Systema may be right for you.
8-Inclusion: Combat Systema is completely secular. We do not advocate religious affiliation or exclusion on any other basis. If you are dedicated to a scientific study of resolving violence and are a geuine and honest seeker, you are always welcome.
9-Cross-Training: While not required, we welcome all practitioners from all styles. Previous experience is part of what makes you the individual that you are. We believe fully in building on that foundation with pride and humility. All practitioners are encouraged to cross train and to share the insights and alternate approaches that they experience. In the end, there are as many Systema as there are practitioners. Students are welcome to train under any teacher, in any style, and to host seminars with anyone they see fit to train with.
10-Fairness: Our motto is Science First. Sharing Always. Fees Never. We do not advocate hidden charges, annual memberships, student passports, or any related costs. Instructors may make their living teaching but the association will never charge you for inclusion. Every school is independent and free to use the knowledge and approach the way they see fit.
If this makes sense to you, we would love to have you in our community. Contact us today to find out more.
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world.
Indeed. It is the only thing that ever has."
Margaret Mead
