Whether you are completely new to martial arts or have decades of experience, starting a new system naturally comes with questions. Here are answers to some of the most common questions about training with CFL Systema.
Do I need martial arts experience?
No. Beginners are welcome. You do not need previous martial arts experience to begin training. Instruction is adapted so you can develop skills progressively while more experienced students continue to be challenged.
Am I too old to start martial arts?
Martial arts training is not limited to young athletes. Our approach emphasizes efficiency, movement, awareness, breathing, coordination, and practical skill rather than relying solely on speed, strength, or athleticism.
Do I need to be in great shape before starting?
No. You train from your current level. Over time, training can help develop better mobility, coordination, endurance, relaxation, balance, and overall physical capability.
What martial arts do you teach?
Training includes Systema Russian Martial Art, Krabi Krabong Thai Warrior Arts, Irish Stick Fighting, and additional martial arts concepts and methods drawn from extensive experience in both armed and unarmed systems.
What is Systema?
Systema is a Russian martial art emphasizing natural movement, breathing, relaxation, adaptability, awareness, and the ability to respond freely under pressure. Rather than relying entirely on memorized techniques, students learn principles that can be applied to constantly changing situations.
Frequently Asked Questions about our other Arts
What is Krabi Krabong?
Krabi Krabong is a traditional Thai warrior art with a strong emphasis on weapons. Training develops coordination, timing, distance, movement, precision, and the ability to work dynamically with weapons such as swords and staffs.
What is Irish Stick Fighting?
Irish Stick Fighting is a traditional fighting method centered around the use of the Irish walking stick or shillelagh. Training explores striking, defense, movement, distance, timing, and practical stick fighting skills while preserving an intriguing piece of Irish martial culture.
Do you teach weapons?
Yes. Weapons training is an important part of several of the arts we practice. Depending upon the class and experience level, training may include sticks, knives, swords, staffs, and other traditional training weapons. Safety and control are emphasized throughout weapons practice.
Is this practical for self defense?
Practical application is an important element of training. Students learn principles involving movement, distance, timing, awareness, striking, releases, defense, and responding to unpredictable situations. No martial art can guarantee the outcome of a real confrontation, but intelligent training can significantly expand your understanding and options.
Will I have to spar or fight immediately?
No. Students develop progressively. Training begins at an appropriate level and increases in complexity as skill, confidence, control, and understanding develop.
What should I wear to my first class?
Wear comfortable athletic clothing that allows you to move freely. Specialized uniforms are generally unnecessary for beginning training unless you are told otherwise before attending.
Do I need to purchase weapons or equipment?
Not before your first class. Contact us before purchasing training weapons or specialized equipment so we can recommend something appropriate for the training.
What makes CFL Systema different?
CFL Systema was established in 2004 and was the first school to bring Systema training to the Greater Orlando area. Founder and Chief Instructor David Orman has spent decades studying martial arts and has trained directly with internationally recognized instructors across multiple martial traditions. This gives students exposure to an unusually broad perspective on movement, combat, weapons, health, and martial development.
Can experienced martial artists benefit?
Absolutely. Experienced practitioners often discover entirely different approaches to breathing, relaxation, movement, structure, timing, weapons, and adaptability. You do not have to abandon what you already know. The training can add another dimension to it.
How do I get started?
The easiest way is to contact CFL Systema and tell us a little about your interests and previous experience, if any. We can help you determine which training opportunity is the best place to begin.
Ready to train? Visit our Contact page to get started.
If you have any other frequently asked questions, please contact me. I would be happy to address them.