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About us

Purpose of the Group
This group exists to provide adults with realistic, practical self-defense training in a calm, structured, and respectful environment.

Training focuses on staying functional under pressure by developing structure, breathing, relaxation, and adaptive movement rather than relying on speed, strength, or memorized patterns.

The goal is not competition or performance. The goal is helping adults understand how their body and mind respond to stress and how to remain balanced, aware, and capable when situations become unpredictable.

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Who Should Join
This group is for adults (18+) who:

  • Have little or no prior martial arts experience
  • Are curious about self-defense but cautious about aggressive or high-intensity environments
  • Want training that emphasizes awareness, stress control, and realistic application
  • Prefer small groups, clear boundaries, and instructor-guided learning

Newcomers are common and expected. Many members are starting from scratch or returning to training after time away.

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Why Join
Most self-defense programs separate physical skills from stress. Maryland Systema trains them together.

By learning how posture, breathing, tension, and movement interact under pressure, members develop skills that carry over into real-world situations.

Introductory classes are offered so adults can experience the training directly before deciding whether it is a good fit.

There is no pressure to continue and no expectation beyond showing up with curiosity.

This group is for adults who value clarity, safety, and practicality over hype or intensity.

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