Core
THE FOUNDATION OF ALL SAMI SYSTEMS
Universal principles. Transferable skills. One foundation for every system.
- Online + in personApp, courses and centers
- No experience neededStart with the fundamentals
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- 5,200+ technique videos
- 60,000+ registered users
- Trainer of police and special forces
What is SAMI-X Core?
SAMI-X Core represents the foundational principles and universal concepts that underpin every SAMI combat system. Whether you train Krav Maga, Stick Fighting, Knife Fighting, or any other SAMI discipline, SAMI-X Core provides the common language and movement logic that connects them all.
Rather than being a standalone fighting style, SAMI-X Core is the conceptual and physical framework that makes transitioning between SAMI systems seamless and accelerates learning across disciplines. It is the DNA of SAMI — the principles that Peter Weckauf embedded into every system he created.
- 01
Universal Movement Principles
SAMI-X Core teaches movement patterns shared across all systems:
stance, balance, and weight distribution
footwork patterns that work armed or unarmed
body alignment and power generation
These principles transfer directly to every SAMI discipline and accelerate skill acquisition.
- 02
Decision-Making Framework
SAMI-X Core establishes a unified approach to decision-making:
threat assessment and response selection
force scaling and proportional action
de-escalation before engagement
This framework ensures consistent, responsible reactions regardless of which system you are using.
- 03
Cross-System Integration
SAMI-X Core is the bridge between disciplines:
common terminology and teaching methodology
shared drill structures and training formats
seamless transition between armed and unarmed techniques
Learning SAMI-X Core makes every other SAMI system easier to learn.
- 04
Body Mechanics & Physical Preparation
The physical foundation for all SAMI training:
functional movement patterns and mobility
injury prevention and longevity in training
stress response management and breathing
A strong Core foundation means safer, more effective training in every SAMI system.
Your first session in the app
There are no free technique videos for Core on this page yet. With a free account you get selected videos and trainings in the app.
Start freeWho Is SAMI-X Core For?
- New to SAMI – looking for the best starting point
- Practitioners training multiple SAMI systems
- Instructors teaching across SAMI disciplines
- Movement-focused learners
Not required: previous martial arts experience, commitment to a specific SAMI system, and special equipment
From your first session to expert
Built step by step – every stage has clear goals.
Instructor Education – SAMI-X Core
- Module 1Movement FoundationsUniversal stance, footwork, balance, and body alignment. The physical vocabulary shared by every SAMI system.
- Module 2Biomechanics & Power GenerationEfficient body mechanics for striking, blocking, and controlling. How to generate maximum effect with minimum effort.
- Module 3Decision-Making & Threat AssessmentThreat recognition, force scaling, and de-escalation strategies. Teaching students to make the right decision under pressure.
- Module 4Teaching MethodologyProgressive training design, drill construction, and class management. How to structure sessions that build skills systematically.
- Module 5Cross-System IntegrationHow Core principles manifest in each SAMI system. Teaching transitions between armed and unarmed disciplines.
Choose your path
In the app
Videos, guided trainings and live trainings – whenever and wherever you want.Start for freeOnline course with certificate
Core level by level, with an exam and an official SAMI diploma.View courseAt a center
With a coach and a group at a SAMI center near you – request your trial class directly from the center.Find a trial classBecome an instructor
The certified SAMI instructor education for Core.View the education
Next seminar: SAMI-X Core Modul 1 · November 27, 2026 · All Core seminars
Start today – for free
Online course with certificate
€290 one-time
Core level by level, with an exam and an official SAMI diploma. No subscription.
View courseExams at a center: with any membership, including SAMI International · Learn more
Peter Weckauf
Founder of the SAMI Combat Systems. Trainer of police and special forces, seminars in over 50 countries.
About SAMI
Questions about Core
The six most important ones here, all others below.
Is SAMI-X Core a standalone combat system?
SAMI-X Core is primarily a foundational framework that supports all SAMI systems. While it teaches valuable movement and decision-making skills on its own, it is designed to be the starting point for deeper exploration of specific SAMI combat systems.
Should I start with SAMI-X Core before other systems?
It is recommended but not required. Starting with Core gives you a head start in any SAMI system because you already understand the shared principles. However, you can also enter any system directly and learn Core principles along the way.
What will I learn in SAMI-X Core?
You will learn:
universal stance, footwork, and movement patterns
body mechanics and power generation principles
threat assessment and response decision-making
the conceptual framework connecting all SAMI systems
functional mobility and training preparation
Do I need a training partner?
Most SAMI-X Core training can be done solo – including movement drills, footwork, body mechanics, and mobility work. Partner exercises are beneficial but not required to learn the fundamentals.
Can SAMI-X Core be trained online?
Yes. SAMI-X Core is particularly well-suited for online training because it focuses on individual movement patterns, body mechanics, and conceptual understanding – all of which can be effectively trained without a partner.
How does Core help me in other SAMI systems?
SAMI-X Core teaches the shared movement logic, terminology, and principles used across all systems. Once you understand the Core, learning specific techniques in Krav Maga, Stick Fighting, Knife Fighting, or any other SAMI system becomes significantly faster and more intuitive.
5 more questions
What does "biomechanics" mean in the SAMI context?
In SAMI, biomechanics refers to understanding how your body moves most efficiently — how to generate power from your hips, how to maintain balance during strikes, how to use body rotation instead of muscle force. SAMI-X Core teaches you to move smarter, not harder.
What is distance management and why is it important?
Distance management is the ability to control the space between you and your opponent. In SAMI-X Core, you learn to recognize and use different combat distances — from long range (kicks, weapons) through mid range (punches, elbows) to close range (clinch, grappling). The right distance determines which techniques are available to you and is one of the most fundamental skills across all SAMI systems.
What does "instinct-based training" mean?
SAMI systems are built on natural human reflexes rather than memorized sequences. Instead of learning hundreds of techniques, SAMI-X Core teaches you to harness your body's natural flinch responses and protective instincts, then refine them into effective defensive actions. This means techniques work under real stress — not just in the training hall.
Is there a SAMI-X Core certification?
SAMI-X Core instructor education is available through SAMI seminars. It covers the universal teaching methodology and foundational principles. Core certification is particularly valuable for instructors who want to teach across multiple SAMI disciplines, as it provides the pedagogical foundation for all systems.
The 6 Universal SAMI Principles
These principles are the DNA of every SAMI Combat System. Master them in Core — apply them everywhere.
Biomechanics
Efficient body mechanics — generating maximum power with minimum effort through proper alignment, rotation, and weight transfer.
Distance Management
Controlling the space between you and your opponent. Knowing when to close distance, when to create it, and which techniques work at each range.
Timing & Rhythm
The right action at the right moment. Reading your opponent's rhythm to find openings and breaking patterns to create advantage.
Instinct-Based Response
Harnessing natural reflexes instead of memorized sequences. Training builds on your body's innate protective instincts so techniques work under real stress.
Adaptivity
The system adapts to the person — not the other way around. Techniques are adjusted to your body type, strength, and situation. No rigid forms.
Progressive Training
From simple to complex. Each drill builds on the previous one. Clear progression from controlled practice to realistic pressure scenarios.
Ready for level 1?
Free, no credit card – Core is set up for you right away.
