I am a tough critic who has trained in several martial arts and fight systems (including Krav Maga). Systema is the most well rounded practice I have encountered. Although it certainly is a fight system, it develops out of an organic curriculum of biomechanics, psychological plasticity, mobility, breath work, posture, functional movement, strength and endurance. Practitioners establish a rich foundation on which their ability to deal with violent scenarios is natural, not rehearsed. Michael is a fantastic teacher whose background in the military, as a bodyguard, and Systema instructor grant him a wealth of experience to draw from. He has trained with (and continues to train with) Vladimir Vasiliev, so his Systema expertise is grounded in the the most advanced spheres of the practice. Michael has great energy, patience and appropriate intensity. He is playful and is clearly passionate about what he does. I would highly recommend him as an instructor. Systema may not be for everyone. Folks who are looking to become Super Soldiers on a 6 week plan will quickly learn that silver bullets don't exist. However, for those who are looking for a meaningful education in elite fight systems, San Antonio Systema is the way to go! PDC read more

I have trained with other Systema practitioners other martial arts academies (4 BJJ places) and can say that Mike is one of my favorite instructors. Exceptional classes with flow- He leads them in a very great way- a simple but effective style where everyone can safely explore their own movement while building each other up. Everyone was very welcoming from the first day. The staple of Systema is to "know thyself" and Mike takes this to heart- leading classes that study 'what makes up a whole and healthy human being'. Drills run seamlessly with one another that focus on the four principles: natural movement, breathing, tension-control/relaxation, and posture, and you get out what you put in. Mike is a very friendly, encouraging and experienced teacher and a great guy all around. After every class, there is ice-water-bucket-dousing available- if you haven't looked into or felt the health benefits of cold-water therapy, you really should, especially in conjunction with this type of training. You feel like a new person, relaxed but energized. The goal is to be healthier than the day before, and that's how you feel. These classes are my therapy in hard times, and I'm so grateful to everyone in them. read more

When you walk out after a class at San Antonio Systema, you will feel measurably better than when you walked in, no matter which of the movements of Systema that were practiced in the session, you will have gone through them combining breathing, relaxation and proper body structure, the material is presented and practiced with your partners in a manner geared towards learning and improvement, this type of training carries over into all other areas of your life, so you basically just start to feel better in everything you do. No matter what your level of experience or capability, Sytema works! read more

This is an awesome place to train. Michael is an excellent instructor. The classes are different and interesting every time. We are learning to move more freely and more naturally The self defense applications are powerful. Having studied other martial arts previously I am very impressed with the effectiveness of Systema. I am also finding that a couple of old chronic injuries are becoming less restrictive which is great. Training is challenging but done with safety, respect and good humor. Good people to train with. Michael offers the first class free to visitors too. read more

I love this martial art I belive its one of the best martial arts in the world once you come in to this class you will leave relaxed Systema is a good self defense class and the things you learn in Systema could be used in everyday life and there's always something new to learn that what makes it fun it never gets boring every time you go to a class is something totally new and Michael the instructor is a really good instructor I recommend this martial art to anyone that wants to practice a martial art and the students are really great to work with very peaceful environment read more

If you haven't tried Systema ( Russian Martial Arts) , you are missing out! Mike is a phenomenal teacher, and will make you feel right at home. No previous martial arts training is necessary, and he does amazing work with veterans and even has kids classes! He also has special events, seminars and the first Systema class is free! You can't go wrong. Great parking, easy access, and you will right at home with these guys. Systema is a martial art for everyone. Get ready to have a great time, and truly learn about yourself! read more

San Antonio Systema helped me turn my fitness practices into a real world health practice. Even after 12 years working as a personal trainer, I was able to learn a tremendous amount about my body, psychology and many neglected areas of health from Mike and the other students. I've experienced drastic improvements in my family life, confidence in movement and overall health and well being. Enough good things can not be said about the caliber of the instructor and community. read more

I have been with San Antonio Systema for 3 years now and I highly recommend it. Mike Gonzales is a great instructor, the students are all down to earth and everyone welcoms newcomers. There is no ego, no one trying to show each other up, and no negative attitude. Plus, Systema is an amazing martial arts/fitness system. Certainly worth trying for anyone. read more

San Antonio Systema is an open and welcoming place to practice the Russian martial art of Systema. If you are looking for a martial art that you can apply to daily life and will help you lead a healthier lifestyle then look no further. Come by and try it out! You'll be glad you did! read more