Softwork DVD...through the eyes of Systema'ist

[Sonny Puzikas]

Not an excuse- just a disclaimer... as to avoid RMAX enthusiasts and practitioners getting an impression that this poster is trying to marginalize Softwork...
Being longtime practitioner and instructor of Systema, I obviously viewed this DVD through the prizm of principles that are fundamental base of Systema, as taught now by M. Ryabko and V. Vasiliev.
And to my surprise found that these principles, methods, training drills (some matching exactly, some varying considerably) are present in Softwork DVD.
Again- please understand- I do not claim that Systema or any other method has any monopoly on any of the number of principles presented. To the contrary- I think that number of arts at the higher levels do promote same approaches (or variations) that are fundamental to Systema and are cornerstones in the work presented in Softwork. Knowing of Scotts background, vast experience and knowledge, I assume that his exposure to number of combat methods has led him to conclusions expressed in Softwork frame.
With probability of exposure to number of arts having much influence- not necessary Systema- many other Russian arts share much of what you will find in Systema.
It would be great to indulge into more detailed discussions with those applying softwork in their training- if they are willing to overcome possible negative vibes this post may have triggered.
I'm placing Softwork DVD in the drawer with my Systema video collection. Not with other ROSS or RMAX videos. That is a compliment- well deserved one, IMO.

Sonny

[Scott Sonnon]

Sonny,

We each see something new through our personal filter. And sharing that insight brings richness to the community.

Truth is truth, no matter the path. Knowing how much you respect your teachers, I take your good words about Softwork as deep complements. Thank you. I look forward to your continued insights. Indulge away. :D

[Glenn Sunshine]

I personally would be very interested in your comments and comparisons. You present yourself on the forum here with respect for what RMAX does and with obvious and justifiable pride in what you do as well. I think you'll find an attitude of mutual respect and congeniality over here, and a real welcome for your thoughts and comparisons. We really do try to go above and beyond politics, and have people here who come from a tremendous range of arts, from RMA, CMA, various Japanese arts, Korean arts, Filipino styles, HEMA, Muay Thai, as well as non-martial movement arts. We are a diverse community that respects and supports practitioners of all arts and all practitioners that don't come in with anegative attitude toward RMAX. So welcome, and I hope you will find this a congenial place to post your ideas, experiences, comparisons, and whatever else you want.

Yours,
Glenn

[Sonny Puzikas]

First off- thanks. It is a pleasure and it isn't very common to find yourself in open minded environment while "playing" in sandboxes away from your own...
Latelly I do visit and read more often (as I have no real job- working on videos and playing with my daughter during the days and conducting classes in the evenings is not "real" job... :wink: ) different forums and reception of concepts is mildly negative.
As many practitioners face the crowds in these numerous forums that are extremelly unwilling to even consider different ideas and approaches and more often than not openly hostile to such "blasphemies" as slow training drills, work with (not against) the attack (empty handed or edged weapon) from contact and so on- many remove themselves from these unfriendly discussions. While I agree to a certain point that RMAX Softwork are better felt, than explained- I submit, that those with knowledge and experience should stick around these discussions and present the science behind such work- as ALL of it can be explained to certain degree.
First, and definitelly not the last topic I would like to hear about from RMAX Softwork practitioners would be density. This concept being quite important in Systema work, it would be very interesting and probably beneficial to all to hear more detailed takes on it from RMAX coaches involved with Softwork-especially Scott himself, as I am sure there is much more to it from RMAX perspective than one could possibly present in one DVD release.
Few questions...
Is density different from tension? If so- how?
What are factors determining pros and cons of working;
A) around density (or tension) detected/triggered/created in certain part of the body of your opponent?
B) through that density (or tension)
C) any combination of A and B- with shifting that density to limit multi- dimensional mobility, etc.
Is density a strictly physical factor?
BTW- I'm not just baiting people to express their views and opinions... Promise to participate as well. Thanks.

Sonny

[Scott Sonnon]

Sonny,

We need to remain as compassionate and patient as possible with people would would harbor such hubris against ways other than their own. It's only their stored fear and trauma which speaks, not their hearts and heads.

Discharging density is the topic of the new DVD entitled, Integrating Structure - a discourse on the meeting point between bodywork and Softwork: myofascial tensegrity.
http://www.circularstrengthmag.com/images/integratingstructuredvd.jpg
I realize that you've written you're not baiting folks here. :wink: However, it would seem to be best if you begin by giving an overview of your perspective on the answers to your questions, and what you're honestly trying to learn here, so that others may join in on the fun learning more about Softwork.

[Randell Waddell]

Good Morning Sonny,

You may find we approach new material, working at Instructor and higher levels a bit uniquely here. Hopefully I can explain a little. You should always find RMAX material is based upon established, scientific research, as well as the research and development Scott (and his team) have done on himself (themselves) in practical applications, and with the thousands of clients he (they) have worked. We actively encourage exploration in all of our people, and encourage healthy, constructive debate. As we explore sometimes, whoever is leading that particular discussion may pose both specific, and sometimes seemingly non-specific questions, to lead one further along the way.

Scott appears to have already welcomed you up into such a dynamic - welcome !!!

Perhaps I can seed some ideas here to support you in your research.

I hope you don't mind me participating actively in here as well as this area is one of my pet loves, and I am very interested in your responses.

Cheers
Randell.
:D