The best books for learning Russian Systema

Systema is a martial art from Russia which is based solely on self defense and was designed for the Russian KGB and military use in combat. This involves throws taken from Russian Sambo, Russian boxing, and is also influenced by some Chinese martial arts. It should also be noted that it also uses weapons in an attacking and defensive capacity. This has led Systema to be compared to the likes of Krav Maga in terms of its style and curriculum.

Since the fall of the Soviet Union, Systema became more popular and mainstream as it spread around the world. As a result, it is one of the faster growing martial arts today but is still relatively obscure compared to the more established martial arts. Because of this, it can sometimes be difficult to learn Systema – especially if you live in a country where it’s barely practiced.

To counter this, here’s a list of the best books to learn from. Whilst learning from books may not be as effective as learning in person, you can still improve and learn where technique is concerned. If you do happen to train Systema, then books are also the perfect supplement to your routine.

These books have been picked due to the following criteria:

• Value
• Quality
• Length
• Ease of use (easy to follow techniques)

We have also chosen to include genuinely interesting books too. For example, although many of the below books are based on techniques, some are also based on stories, philosophy and the history of Systema too which is equally as captivating.

The Complete Book of Combat Systema by Kevin Secours

This book is written by Kevin Secours who has decades of Systema training under his belt and a background in other martial arts. Here, he writes from his own experiences and this means there are some techniques that aren’t mentioned as Secours deems them redundant. The main benefit of this book is that it’s great for beginners as it uses clear photos to guide you with learning technique. In short, if you’re new to Systema then this book is very useful and will help you with some of the fundamental moves that it uses.

Systema: The Russian Martial System by Guiseppe Filotto

At nearly 500 pages in length, this is a massive book dedicated to Systema. Handily, it also includes access to 40 free videos as well to guide you with your learning. What’s interesting about this book is that Filotto also delves into the science of Systema and doesn’t just list off techniques.

For instance, he looks at breathing techniques that can be used in combat. Arguably, this is one of the most underrated aspects of fighting but is just one of many examples that is listed in how to make you a better martial artist. So, this book isn’t just about the physical approaches of Systema, it also looks at the science and philosophy behind the Russian martial art.

Systema Manual by Major Komarov

Where better place to start than learning under Major Komarov who has Russian military experience as well as direct roots to the very founder of Systema? This manual is also communicated very well considering he is a native Russian. What’s unique about this book is that it’s written from the perspective of a Systema veteran.

With this in mind, this book is better suited towards advanced Systema practitioners that are more experienced with the art. This isn’t particularly a bad thing but is worth mentioning and overall it’s also a great book for Systema teachers to draw upon as well.

The Russian System Guidebook by Vladimir Vasiliev

At 80 pages in length, this book is short but sweet. Interestingly, it also offers something a bit different. In brief, as well as offering techniques and the usual stuff found in Systema books, it also delves into the history of the art and goes into its roots. For anyone wanting to learn the historical side of Systema then this is a good read.

Of course, you can be interested in the history and culture without training the art and if so, this is a solid place to start. It’s also illustrated nicely and as you can see by the front cover the drawings are rich in detail. This was originally written in the late 90s to go along with Vasiliev’s training videos, so if you like the book then check out the instructional videos too.

Sambo and Systema by Kevin Secours

Kevin Secours returns, this time with a book based specifically on Sambo and Systema. It’s no secret that Sambo influenced Systema, and Secours shows you the history of the pair. It should be noted that this book is made from journal and magazine entries that have been collected and put together.

Overall, it makes for a good read and also looks at how to use Sambo in unison with Systema. Having said this, if you expect this to be a book about techniques or skills then this book is not for you.

EDGE: Secrets of the Russian Blade Masters by Vladimir Vasiliev

Once again, Vladimir Vasiliev delves into his Systema knowledge and like usual he delivers with a level of mysticism as well. This is Systema after all, which often involves ‘secret’ Russian techniques. As the title of this book suggests, it’s based on how to defend against knife attacks and how to be offensive with blades too. With this in mind, this book is based on blades rather than an overview of the entirety of Systema. Although there are lots of knife-based martial arts out there, this offers a unique look using a Systema background to dissect knife fighting.

Systema: Russian Martial Art 25 Combat Drills by Matt Hill

If you’re not interested in the history of Systema, then this is an ideal book for you. This is a no-nonsense guide by Matt Hill and shows 25 drills that can be used in real life. Here, you’ll learn joint locks, takedowns, and other Systema training methods. One of the benefits of this book is that it focuses on the fundamentals of Systema. There’s no fancy-looking stuff used here and it can be learned by both beginners and more advanced practitioners alike.

For those that don’t have access to training in person and just want to get down and train instantly, this is a good read. As you can expect, it includes basic diagrams as well descriptions to help you along the way.

Systema Revelations by Brad Scornavacco

This book is almost a love letter to Systema by Brad Scornavacco who has trained in the art for nearly 20 years. It begins with the quote, “Systema is the Principle, You are the Art” which is a good place to start. From this philosophy, Systema Revelations is based on the philosophical implications of training and is as much a book about philosophy and ideas as it actually is in showing physical techniques.

Here, Scornavacco also goes into depth about what it truly means to be a Systema practitioner and whether it’s suited to you. If you’re wondering about starting the art, or whether you’ve trained for years – it’s a good read and offers something a bit different for you to think about.

Exercises & Ideas for teaching a Systema class by Aaron Ellis

The basis of this book is that it’s meant for teachers to use as inspiration. It’s also detailed and presented clearly so if you need ideas on what and how to teach, then this is a good book. Here, practically everything is touched upon. From the history of Systema, to weapons, drills, escapes, and breathing – basically everything is covered here. Talking of breathing, this book has a big section dedicated to breathwork which is great if you’re looking at teaching breathing techniques.

Of course, it’s best to approach this book with prior experience but generally speaking it’s a good, rough guide on what to expect when training Systema.

Strikes: Soul Meets Body by Vladimir Vasiliev

In this book, Vasiliev looks specifically at how to strike enemies using Systema. This means it’s a good book for those who are into punches and kicking. If you’re aware of Vasiliev then you’ll also know his approach comes from a philosophical background too. Here, he uses a holistic approach and claims that you don’t just punch with your fists, it also comes from within your body and mind. This is partly where breathing techniques come into play.

Further, if you really want to learn about the science behind Systema then this is a good example of it. Although this book is based on striking, its ideas can be applied to other areas of fighting.