Systema Academy Matt Hill

Fantastic experience: The best workshops I have ever visited. Matt is living Systema and the feelings after the exercise are very calming and fulfiling. Reccommend to everyone. After one week in forest I was balanced for whole year.

Fantastic experience: Matt Hill and his Systema Academy are a real gem. His farm and the surroundings make for a special one-of-a-kind environment to train all aspects of Systema. Summer camp was a welcoming experience to train in many different conditions, with great people, following challenging and creative drills. Matt has a high degree of technical skills but is also talented at communicating and teaching those skills to others, which is a rare combination. I look forward to my next visit to Matt Hill’s Systema Academy!

Fantastic experience: Spring Systema 2 Day Intensive Camp 26-27th April 2025 Thank you Matt for an amazing weekend, you are a very skilled teacher and the whole weekend had the perfect balance of support and challenge leaving me with a sense of achievement as I very much extended my skills and knowledge, as well as feeling safe. A great community who shared their skills so generously and it was fantastic to be outdoors in beautiful nature for the whole weekend and sleeping under a tarp for the first time . I highly recommend Systema training for health as well as partner work. In three months of online classes I have increased my strength, physical fitness levels, posture and have attained a level of relaxation in my body I didn’t think was possible after back injuries.

Fantastic experience: I attended Matt's Spring Systema Intensive at his beautiful property in Devizes, which took place over two days and included a wide range of training activities. I had been following his work for years and jumped on an opportunity to experience his teaching in person. It was easily one of the best training experiences I've ever had. My experience level with Systema is low but I left the weekend feeling energized, stronger, more aware, relaxed, and with many tools in my toolbelt to more intuitively deal with tension as it comes in. Matt has a fantastic presence and facilitated a safe, warm training environment where everyone felt like close friends at the end. I couldn't recommend working with him and learning with him enough. He's the real deal.

Fantastic experience: I saw Matt today for a private, during which he leant me his time to help me explore some foundational elements of Systema, including breathing work and some Systema striking fundamentals. He was able to identify patterns in my natural movement, which bring excess tension into my body, and supported me with some strategies to notice and begin remediation of this. He also identified an area of breath work for me to focus on and provided a pragmatic and grounded rationale for how it would benefit me. He was calm and considered in his teaching, addressed my questions clearly and was indulgent of my ramblings, while I processed things and thought out loud. Matt is really observant and gives excellent feedback and coaching cues. Really good experience and one I would recommend to anyone curious about Systema or new to training it.

Fantastic experience: I have been trying with Matt for a while now and the academy is a very friendly and welcoming place. Combine that with Matt's wealth of knowledge and practical experiences of the group and it is very easy to relax and learn. I am very grateful to be learning an easier more relaxed way of doing everything

Fantastic experience: Over the past few years, I’ve hardly attended seminars anymore—for several reasons. Most of the time, only the big names are invited to these events. Such seminars usually attract large crowds, which I completely understand from a business perspective. However, on a personal level, I often find this challenging for a number of reasons. One of the main reasons is that, in my opinion, the choice for mass appeal often results in a lack of depth. As a result, I intentionally seek out seminars that are much more small-scale. Organizing such events often requires more courage than wisdom. Fortunately, in the Netherlands, we have Jaro Wanders of Breath & Body, who possesses that courage. He invites instructors who may not be very well-known but have an incredible amount of knowledge and expertise to share. This past weekend, I once again participated in a training led by Matt Hill. For me, Matt is one of the “hidden masters” in the Systema world. What sets him apart, in my view, is his modest yet deeply engaged attitude. He is also a gifted teacher in an educational sense. Matt creates a very safe learning environment in which every participant, from beginner to advanced practitioner, is able and encouraged to learn. I thoroughly enjoyed this seminar and even stayed for both days, whereas I usually stop after just one day. I can highly recommend Matt to anyone seeking a coach in the fields of health, personal development, and martial arts. Drs. Jan Bloem, Human Movement Scientist

Fantastic experience: Training Systema with Matt is a privilege. If you can, visit his school or at least one of his seminars. Great instructor and even greater person. Thank you!

Fantastic experience: I had the honour and pleasure of hosting Matt for a couple of times. During these seminars I was amazed by the build up Matt has in the classes and the ability to all bring it together. Matt has a clear understanding of martial arts and how to explain them.

Fantastic experience: I came to Matt's Academy for the weekend on 23-24 November 2024. It was great time and seminar as usual. The Academy has a fantastic sauna, shower and kitchen. As the last year I stayed at the Academy over night. Every time I train with Matt my Systema improves and I feel more calmer and confident in my skills. There is always a great environment and group of like-minded people who support each other in discovering Systema. I highly recommend Matt Hill's Academy to everyone who wants to study and improve their Systema!

Fantastic experience: Matt's 5-day 'Forging Resilience' November intensive: what an amazing experience! Now 3 days back to my regular life and its challenges , I'm noticeably more fit, more open and kind in my interaction with other people (especially the difficult ones), and pretty unconcerned about stressful situations because Matt taught me how I can always find my way back to a calm and resourceful inner state - whatever the challenges. And during my class at London Bridge Systema yesterday, I found that my understanding and skills are now on a different level - from where I can progress with a much clearer sense of what Systema is all about. Klaus Herold, 70 years old, living and working as a bookseller in London

Fantastic experience: Great place, superb atmosphere and excellent training!

Fantastic experience: Somehow, Matt has managed to find a way to teach Systema so as to be easily accessible and understood. This is no small task. Systema has been described as the simplest yet most difficult of all martial arts. Those who study will know exactly what I mean. In order for Systema to be understood by a beginner like me it cannot be taught in an erudite or pedantic way. It must be taught so that concepts are easily reached and understood. I personally have found Matt to be a master at this kind of teaching. Concepts that we're out of my reach or that brought me great struggle have become simplified and given me many 'ahh-ha' moments and connections. Concepts that were far beyond my reach are not any longer because of the way Matt teaches. I highly recommend studying Systema with Matt. Jim Bergdoll Maine USA

Fantastic experience: Just came back from the 5 day summer camp and thoroughly enjoyed it. Located in a beautiful private woodland, it allowed us to reconnect to the rhythms of the natural world and come away fully recharged. There were plenty of mobility drills, breath work and partner drills all designed to deepen our relationship with self, with the environment around us and with other people. Matt is an excellent teacher, thoughtful, attentive and is able to convey simply the principles of systema. We moved, we laughed, we slept under the stars and shared stories around the camp fire. I would highly recommend attending the summer camp or any of Matt's other offerings.

Fantastic experience: An amazing venue to study Systema and relax. The academy training hall is well equipped and matted for safe and pleasant study of martial arts. There is also a residential option, where the academy turns into a BNB with all the facilities for a dedicated student. Matt is a knowledgeable Systema instructor and generous, kind and attentive teacher. The new academy is located in a tranquil place surrouned by nature which makes it a great place to go deep inside and better oneself as a Systema practitioner.

Positive experience: I went on the 5 day Systema Camp and enjoyed all the lessons. Matt is a very good instructor.

Fantastic experience: I have been training with Matt for 6 years now and its been extremely helpful for my day to day life and overall physical and mental wellbeing. The recent intensive course was an incredible opportunity to further develop my understanding and skills in Systema. Matt is an excellent teacher and Systema can be a huge benefit to anyone.

Fantastic experience: I'm new to Systema and highly recommend Matt Hill. He breaks down learning, makes it accessible and is very skilled at supporting you whatever your level. I'm an unlikely candidate for martial arts but there is an option to join the general health classes as an introduction. With its emphasis on releasing tension, breathing and movement, and from what I can already see about Systema and talking to others who have benefitted, it is an excellent way of improving your health, clearing your mind and being more relaxed.

Fantastic experience: I have experimented with many different forms of movement and exercise in order to remain strong, fit and healthy. Learning Systema with Matt Hill has provided the best results for my physical and mental well being. No matter what age you are or what level of health you have, I urge you to experience the amazing training Matt provides. Since training with Matt not only am I physically better but I am less stressed, more confident and holistically whole. For the sake of your health and longevity get in touch with Matt Hill now. Geoff Sober

Fantastic experience: This school is run by a wonderful instructor! Highly skilled and knowledgeable, Matt really cares for his students and gives the right training to people of all ages, all occupations and all fitness levels. 5 stars all around!

Fantastic experience: I joined the online academy just under a year ago in the context of the pandemic. I think Matt is an experienced, skilled and sincere instructor who brings a great balance to both martial and health development aspects through the Systema lens. I have really benefited from the online live classes and thoughtfully archived library of recordings that Matt continues to build. Probably like many others I was sceptical as to what you could learn on line and have been pleasantly surprised. Clearly a factor has been Matt's attention to having the right ICT in place and his skills in demonstrating and sharing his skills and knowledge through this medium. I am noticing greater body and psyche awareness and overall good health as I integrate the breathing and movement exercises into my day to day living. I would recommend Matt to any martial artist who is looking to augment their skills, in addition to anyone who would simply like to maintain and improve their whole health, focusing more on the non-martial aspects of the curriculum that Matt has developed. This is something which you can practice solely online or to compliment other training, in addition to taking the opportunity to meet Matt and other online students during his regular in person and online additional seminars.

Fantastic experience: Full Scope Systema Camp 2022 Well here here are some of my thoughts on this year’s 2022 Systema summer camp. I came into it with a shoulder injury/pain that had been giving me jip for several months. That pain is now almost completely healed. Happy Days! ☺️ Matt’s Systema camp fortifies you in a way that’s very nurturing, it’s like learning warrior skills and having a massage at the same time. My ability to relax myself at will has deepened profoundly, so much so it released emotion that had been stored in my body for many years, as Matt puts it, cleaning myself of tensions that no longer serve me (if they ever did). Another big takeaway is how important people are in my life, which I had been kind of progressively neglecting, how wonderful it is to find your tribe and what that gives you. And it gives you more than money and material wealth, not to say I don’t like nice things and having money but ultimately money and stuff won’t give you love and a sense of belonging. So since I’ve returned from the camp I feel more joyful, braver, and more capable and at peace than I’ve ever felt during my 49 years here on this planet. For this I will be forever grateful to Matt and to Systema. I would recommend attending one of Matt’s camps or classes to anyone seeking a different way of approaching having a fulfilled life. I give my heartfelt thanks to Matt and all the beautiful souls Imet and trained with at the camp. I truly believe that if even a quarter of the people in the world practiced Systema then it would be a more peaceful joyful place. Matt Upton

Fantastic experience: One of the fortunate outcomes of the Covid situation was that Matt started teaching Zoom classes several times a week. This has made it possible to be an Academy member from a distance and to follow both solo and partner classes. The opportunity to obtain regular teaching not only from a brilliant teacher but also to get the same level of feedback as if you were at the Academy is amazing. As an additional bonus classes are recorded so it is possible to go through them again at your own pace. Then, it is just a question of going to a course, camp or other training face to face whenever the opportunity arises. For me this has been a perfect way of travelling on my Systema journey. I would thoroughly recommend this route to anyone not able to go to the Academy directly.

Fantastic experience: I have been a member at the Systema Academy now for eight years. I was approaching a significant birthday when I first heard Matt speak about Systema and I recognised in myself many of the tell tail, day to day, bad habits that he was speaking about. In the past I had never done any physical training or martial art, the only sport I had ever engaged in was swimming. Matt provides training both in person at his Academy and via video link, with everybody able to work at their own pace and level. My children and grandchildren have noticed the significant difference in my freedom of movement, especially compared to their other parents and grandparents. My confidence has improved along with my posture and many other benefits. I started just by doing the Health and Fitness class but have moved on to do a little of the combat training which is both fun and rewarding.

Fantastic experience: I joined the academy a few months ago and have found so much value in it. The warm welcome, the teaching style and the other members of the group come together to make it feel like a very special place. The benefits of Systema itself are too many to mention here! Highly recommended.

Fantastic experience: The Systema Academy is a great combination of learning self defence along side health and breathing classes, it caters for all ages. Matt Hill is a great instructor with a wealth of knowledge and has a calm approach to his teaching with structured classes. I have found that since starting with the Academy my mobility and fitness has improved no end and I even take my granddaughter along to their kids class, not only do they offer weekly classes, they also run a woodland camp and canoe trip and for the real adventurer a jungle trip. It’s a fabulous place to learn with a great group of people.

Fantastic experience: Matt offers an incredible breadth of opportunity to experience yourself within a Martial Arts environment but also into Nature and daily life. If willing to apply yourself and practice there are many places you may go and ways of fulfilling your life journey through calm, meaningful breaths. I can gaurantee you, you will meet the most amazing people!

Fantastic experience: Matt is an outstanding professional trainer in breathwork, natural movement and martial arts. His approach, well described in his books and explained in his videos, fits perfectly into modern developments in health psychology. Participants will be trained to expand their limits step by step in a varied and often funny manner. The everyday life is the main training area! Above all Matt is one of the most impressive and nicest guys I know, he is a perfect role model for his own approach. Beeing a clinical and health psychologist I can strongly recommend him and his Systema Academy. I have been benefiting a lot from him and his training since more than three years.

Fantastic experience: Matt is a very calm knowledgeable experienced instructor and a down to earth person . This isn't just your run of the mill training and it incorporates movement and breathing that near enough anyone can do with some training and belief .

Fantastic experience: I've been using the Systema Academy for 2 weeks now... life changing! I initially read Matt's books Systema Health and Living Systema 12 months ago, but it wasn't until I started the 28 day Systema Challenge that I really began to understand Systema and the ongoing health benefits it provides. The 28 Day Course really gives you an allround taste of the Systema system and builds into a healthy breathing and movement habit which I can see stretching into my latter years. To be able to freely transition again from the ground to standing has given me a new love of life, allowing me to do what really matters... getting down on the ground and playing with the kids! I feel 21 again! The Systema Academy is an amazing resource. At first it appeared to be a bit overwhelming, due to the large amount of information, videos and classes available. But once I got into it, the online class recordings are well categorised and user friendly. For me being easily able to find several themed classes which specifically work on ground to standing transitions is great. There literally is several years worth of workout recordings to choose from. And a very generous price that such an amazing resource is being offered ! The breath work to close out each of the Classes, leaves you feeling alive and invigorated! The best thing about the Academy isn't necessarily the resources provided, but the ongoing support and guidance that Matt gives. Honest, humble and full of passion for Living Systema. My words cannot come close to expressing my deep appreciation to Matt, for what he is providing through the Academy. Don't hesitate, take the 28 day Challenge and the Lifetime of healthy living that the Academy will surely bring. Cheers Chris

Fantastic experience: I have nothing but praise and admiration for Matt who featured on my podcast recently. He's clearly very knowledgeable in creating a life of vibrancy and wellbeing, but also a very interesting and kind man too. I love the sound of his camps... I did admit off air that I may do one in the future!

Fantastic experience: Highly recommended! If you have even the slightest curiosity to try Systema, you owe it to yourself to experience the Systema Academy in Melksham. Matt Hill is a true gentleman whose skill and passion in sharing the values and principles of Systema, became immediately apparent the first session I took. And, over the months —whilst my training has been not as frequent as I'd like— the feeling I have when entering each class has been akin to reuniting with family. Bottom line — Matt's kindness and warmth has been as impactful on me as the deft demonstration of the physical skills and techniques he teaches. And I'd give six stars if I could :-) Check it out!

Fantastic experience: In 2017 I saw examples of Systema on Youtube and contacted Matt in regards to a Systema instructor near me [ unfortunately not many near me without a stressfull drive] Matt mentioned to me that he did a 5 day intensive [ Smooth Operator!!!] Wow what an experience it was so much more than I could even begin to imagine!!! Transformative is the only way I can describe it.Matts attitude and manner is the first thing you encounter the stillness and calm of him that creates the training vibe his patience and tolerance [especially with my verbosity !!!! ] In that atmosphere you learn.From that time I have been instructed by Matt on several occasions and in 2018 I came to my second intensive.It is very difficult to explain the joy of it.You meet a diverse group of people which can only enrich you .You learn to empathise sympathise and punch them in a healing way.I have never been more relaxed in my life, my strength balance and flexibility have never been better.There is an added bonus to Systema that is overlooked , it is a lot of Fun !!! I took that first step and the rewards have been countless!

Fantastic experience: Although I haven't had the opportunity to train with Matt in person, I wouldn't hesitate to attend class if I lived in the area. I reached out to Matt with a few questions about his videos and found him knowledgeable and generous with his time, which are always great qualities in a teacher. His books are also top-notch for anyone who is interested in applying systema's approach to movement to their day-to-day activities.

Fantastic experience: Matt, before I met you I was a bit of a seeker doing meditation, surfing, yoga whatever I could find to try and find peace and happiness. Since then i've being doing the Wim Hoff thing: 4 rounds of breathing followed by 5 min cold shower and it's good you know it works in its own way. My girlfriend in Sweden gave me a great book about emotions and energy and the human condition and then Sadghuru has also been inspiring. What i've realised is that there's a common thread underlying all of them, and here comes my point. Systema and your interpretation and teaching of it covers and brings them all together. It's unreal. In my mind you are one of the great teachers alive today to help people to get to a place where it's possible to "Know thyself". Thanks Matt.

Fantastic experience: Fantastic session , great attention to detail and very well presented.

Fantastic experience: Went here last week as a visitor and was warmly welcomed by all and really enjoyed this totally novel but no nonsense and practical martial art. The breathing exercises, which I have been practising, have been great for boosting concentration.