GOLD COUNTRY SYSTEMA

Real World, Practical Martial Arts, in Nevada City, CA

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What is Systema?

Systema is more than a martial art, it’s a holistic practice for personal growth and self-defense. Its core principle is Non-Destruction, meaning movements protect rather than harm the body. You won’t see damaging kicks, strikes, or throws—just natural, biomechanical movements that keep your body healthy.

Breathwork is central in Systema. It helps you stay calm under pressure, recover quickly from stress, and improve overall health. Movements are spontaneous, adaptable, and tension-free, leaving you energized and at ease.

Training is practical, with no uniforms or memorized patterns. You'll practice realistic situations, with or without weapons, preparing you mentally and physically for life's challenges.

Systema builds genuine confidence, mental clarity, and physical resilience, allowing you to stay strong and independent throughout your life.

Why Train Systema


Unlike martial arts such as Jiu-Jitsu, Sambo, Mauy Thai, or MMA, Systema doesn't rely on repetitive drills, memorized forms, or fixed techniques. Instead, training focuses on real-world self-defense situations, teaching you to adapt naturally.

Systema emphasizes:

  • Fluid movement and adaptability

  • Breath control to manage stress

  • Relaxation and natural posture

  • Healing old injuries while improving skills

Whether you’re new to martial arts or an experienced practitioner, Systema meets you where you are, helping you build confidence and resilience both on the mat and in daily life.

Try a Free Class

Meet your Instructors

  • Certified Instructor
    For over 30 years, I’ve explored a variety of martial arts—from Tai Chi and Capoeira to Japanese Jiu Jitsu and Kung Fu—but none fully resonated with me until I discovered Systema. I have been training Systema for 12 years now and I can honestly say that it touches a deeper path toward authentic self-awareness and mastery, seamlessly complementing my background in bodywork and trauma healing. The breath work, conscious movement, appropriate relaxation, and proper structure developed through training Systema have improved my health, my attitude, and every aspect of my life. The focus on embodied freedom and honesty in training leads one to develop and become a better person. I’m passionate about sharing this accessible, real-world approach to training, helping students build practical self-defense skills while embracing genuine personal growth.

  • Certified Instructor
    I have been a martial arts practitioner since I was 18. My first art, Capoeira, and my teacher Mestre Doutor, found me at my high school in Philadelphia in 2002. I started teaching Capoeira in 2009, and opened a school in Sonoma County, CA with John Hannon, a fellow student from Tom Brown Jr’s Tracker school. John, who taught Aikido, had also been studying Systema. He was the first to introduce me to the unique striking methods and the powerful principles of breathing, relaxation, structure and movement. When I felt its power I was immediately and permanently intrigued. We hosted Martin Wheeler at our school and I began my Systema journey. I know Systema to be applicable to all life skills; it is an ever expanding and infinitely minute lens to see any practice, an amazing supplement to any art in which you are already proficient, and a methodology that is also complete on its own. 

Schedule

We offer weekly classes designed to fit into your busy schedule—perfect for both newcomers and experienced practitioners.

Wednesdays 6-730pm

@ Muhai Martial Arts
548 Searls Ave
Nevada City

Your first class is Free.

We also host special workshops and seminars throughout the year for those looking to deepen their practice.

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