Robert was born in London and began studying boxing and martial arts at a young age. For many years he made an intensive study of the Chinese Internal styles, particularly Yang Taijiquan, alongside Qigong and other related methods.
In the early 1990s he set up his own school and began widening his training into many other areas, from meditative practices to combatives and weapons work. In 2000 he became aware of the Russian art of Systema and was one of the first in the UK to be qualified as an Instructor, under Vladimir Vasiliev.
He describes Systema as "an art that encompasses all aspects of living" and teaches it in the UK and throughout Europe. He has travelled several times to Moscow for training with Mikhail Ryabko, as well as many visits to Vladimir's school in Toronto.
Robert teaches a wide range of people; from martial artists to professional dancers, military and security personnel, corporate and charity organisations and people of all ages interested in fitness and well-being. He is the author of numerous books, including Systema Solo Training and Fitness Over 40 and has produced an extensive range of training films.
His teaching is characterised by practicality, humour and attention to detail. In his spare time Robert is a musician and writer and he now lives in rural North Bedfordshire with his wife and a small menagerie.