Systema For Life

Systema For Life


Episode 124: Jan Bloem

February 05, 2021

This week, a fascinating conversation with neuroscientist, self defense expert, and prolific martial artist Jan Bloem.
Jan has studied the art and science of movement and combat at the highest levels, in the fields of kinesiology and psychomotor therapy, as a world champion karateka, and as a teacher and student of Systema. Here, we discuss:



  • his path into martial arts via traditional Okinawan karate
  • the problem of linear training vs non-linear combat
  • the role of meaning, belief, and culture in martial arts training
  • stories from his training with various Systema masters in Moscow

We cover a lot of ground in this extended conversation, yet clearly we barely scratched the surface of his knowledge. Very much looking forward to a follow-up discussion in the future. 

Mentioned in this episode
Jan's free video seminar series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=67CvW8-ezus

Find out more about Jan's work at: https://www.janbloem.nl/