This episode, a frank and heartfelt discussion on the practice and benefits of Systema with Ivan Butsan - longtime student of Vladimir Vasiliev and an Instructor at Russian Martial Art HQ, Toronto. Few who have trained with Ivan at HQ will forget the experience. He is at once a powerhouse of structure, a skilled opponent, and for those who are open to his insights, a generous teacher and training partner.
He is also the author and presenter of a popular Systema Blog, detailing lessons and principles he has learned at HQ.
Here, we talk at length about:
his first impressions of Systema
how and why he started his Systema Blog
the relationship between physical and psychological practice (including "energy work")
why it's important to tailor your Systema (for proper fit)
why he hates the phrases "stay loose" and "self defense"!
Check out Ivan's YouTube Channel here, and visit the accompanying Systema Blog at www.systemablog.com