Does anyone do Martial or Grappling?

Systema is a perfect combat style of fighting that actually works quite well. Any person can order the videos online now and even take some classes, which just wasn't available ten years ago. I was fortunate enough to be trained by one of the very few grandmasters. I have trained in CQB with several systema experts, along with advanced CQB AK47 training, which is awesome. The Russian Spetznas is no joke.

I have also trained in the modern day Army Combatives. They took some of the most effective moves and counters, and applied them in a very successful way. The Army even has a program for those who wish to advance, by competing for the UFC.

No matter what you choose, I feel that judo, aikido, jui-jitsu, ninjitsu, and systema are all excellent and sound choices. Having trained in all of them, I have to admit that even I have had difficulty in a fight or three. The very best way to avoid getting your arse kicked is just to avoid a fight whenever possible. Especially when you are outnumbered on a street corner 5 to 1 at three in the morning. *cough*

But, train hard. Discipline yourself, and excercise daily, even when you are sore. Train your body and you will avoid unecessary injuries. When in a fight, do not hesitate. Go for the opponents' weak areas -his knees, throat, and groin. In combat there are no rules, no gloves. Some of the older experts of my art refuse to play part in arenas like the UFC just because it is a different world than what we train for. When an expert in Systema enters the octagon, which will never happen I imagine, the other guy will end up seriously injured or killed, because combat training and competitive arts are two completely different worlds.

As a third degree blackbelt in jui-jitsu, I was trained on learning all the pressure points, I had to know every muscle, every bone, every function. In a fight, I never really think of these things, as it becomes second nature and almost instinctive. I think that the ninjitsu approach is very helpful, where it teaches you to evade and use the shadows to wait for a perfect opportunity to strike. Even the most expertly trained can lose to a sniper or by being outnumbered. The greatest tools are the ones that help you to avoid a fight if possible, and when engaged -to be ruthless and unforgiving...just kill effectively, without hesitation, and in silence. Using fear in battle is also a valuable weapon.

But that's a whole topic of its own.

 

It's alright, guys. There are skeptics for everything, and this is no different. I have nothing to prove anymore.

My only advice is to get some hands on experience. I am a soldier, and I have no desire to compete in sports. I am living the life, and I can honestly say that I have been fortunate enough to have some of the very best combat experience, and have had plenty of chances to put it to the test.