Knowledge • Perspective • Capability
Sifu Journal & Field Notes
Articles and reflections by Alan Baker on training, travel, and the experiences that shape his work. Explore self protection, self defense, and the ongoing development of capability through study, practice, and everyday life.
90 articles in Self Protection & Self Defense
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The Crucible of Stress: Refining Skills in Realistic Scenarios
Dive into the dynamics of mastering martial arts with a focus on environmental training, where skills are honed under varied stress levels. Discover the pitfalls of the “faster and harder”…
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Navigate The Pre-Fight Social Exchange
Dive into the dynamics of pre-fight social exchanges, understanding the importance of maintaining social distance and mastering verbal tools for de-escalation. Learn about soft control and visually appropriate techniques to…
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Integrating Firearms and Defensive Tactics: The Mat To Muzzle Approach
Discover the innovative Mat To Muzzle Program, crafted in collaboration with the Warrior Poet Society Team, designed to meet the specific needs of today’s armed citizens. This comprehensive program goes…
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Embracing the Full Spectrum: The Power of Handheld Weapons in Combat
Dive into the world of martial arts and discover the profound impact of mastering handheld weapons, both edged and blunt, on combat effectiveness and self-defense. With over four decades of…
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Grappling with Reality: The Integration of Grappling into Modern Self-defense.
Dive into the evolution of martial arts with a focus on grappling, wrestling, and the incorporation of everyday carry (EDC) into training for enhanced tactical readiness. This article examines the…
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Vehicle Defensive Tactics and Dog Boxing
Explore the vital strategies of Vehicle Centric Defensive Tactics (VCDT) and the dynamic Dog Boxing methodology in our comprehensive guide. Uncover practical self-defense techniques tailored for vehicle-related encounters and learn…
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A Range Day Of Navigating Challenges And Cultivating Growth.
Delve into the transformative journey of personal growth and resilience in firearms training with Coach Dennis Rousseau. Explore the power of mentorship, self-improvement, and navigating obstacles to reach your full…
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Mastering Combat Essentials: The Combat Blueprint’s Approach to Self-Defense
Dive into the comprehensive Combat Blueprint, a strategic approach to martial arts emphasizing core aspects like blade training, physical fitness, and mental acuity. This article highlights the importance of the…
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Integrating Combatives with Firearms Training: The Need for a Unified Approach
Explore the intricate dance of verbal and non-verbal confrontations before they escalate into physical altercations. Master the art of social buildup, understand the ‘range’ of conflict, and grasp the crucial…
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Immersing Yourself in the Culture of Marksmanship: A Path to Ongoing Growth
Unlock the full potential of marksmanship by immersing in its rich culture. Elevate your skills, foster camaraderie, and stay at the forefront of firearm technology and tactics. Join the C-Tac…
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Understanding and Navigating Critical Distance in Self-Defense
Delve into the Civilian Tactical Association’s approach to self-defense with the C-Tac® System. Learn about Critical Distance, situational awareness, and tactical strategies for personal safety, covering everything from pre-attack indicators…
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Incorporating An EDC (Everyday Carry) Training Kit In Your Training
Explore the transformative journey of incorporating an EDC (Everyday Carry) training kit into combat training. Discover how integrating firearms and blades reshapes traditional martial arts, leading to the creation of…
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Training for a De-escalation Mindset
Explore the importance of integrating a de-escalation mindset in martial arts training, emphasizing mental and verbal tactics over physical confrontations for security professionals. Discover how tailored programs can enhance personal…
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Mastering the Melee: A Look Into Multiple Opponent Self-Defense
Explore the complexities of facing multiple opponents in self-defense. This article delves into traditional training gaps, introduces the innovative Keysi Fighting Method, and offers strategies for 360-degree awareness and readiness.…
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The Critical Intersection of Martial Arts and Protection: A Deep Dive into Modern Training Needs
Explore the critical intersection of martial arts and modern protection training needs. Discover how martial arts expertise, combined with a comprehensive approach to protection, can enhance personal defense, strategic thinking,…
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The Transformative Journey of Filipino Martial Arts
This in-depth article explores the multifaceted benefits of Filipino martial arts (FMA). Discover how FMA provides a unique blend of physical exertion and mental focus for effective stress relief and…
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Alan Baker Podcast – 004 – Understanding The Pillars of Vulnerability
Welcome to Episode 004 of the Alan Baker Show! In today’s podcast, we delve deep into understanding vulnerability factors and how to be more prepared for the uncertainties that life…
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The Warriors’ Mindset of Survival
Explore the vital connection between marksmanship and emergency medical knowledge in this insightful piece. Discover why every responsible firearm enthusiast should embrace medical training to be truly prepared for any…
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The Difference Between Self-Protection and Self-Defense: Building a Comprehensive Skill Set for Personal Safety
When it comes to personal safety, many individuals often use the terms “self-protection” and “self-defense” interchangeably. However, it is crucial to understand the distinction between these two concepts
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Mastering Vehicle-Related Self-Defense: The Comprehensive C-Tac® Approach
Explore the significance of motor vehicle-related crimes and the need for specialized self-defense training in such scenarios. Dive into the comprehensive approach of the C-Tac® system, which covers everything from…
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The Evolution of Law Enforcement Defensive Tactics: Adapting to Modern Challenges
Explore the intricate relationship between Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) and law enforcement gear in the realm of defensive tactics. Uncover the often-overlooked challenges of integrating BJJ techniques within the context of…
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Essential 72-Hour Bug Out/IN Bag
This article provides a comprehensive guide to emergency preparedness, including tips on creating a bug out bag, developing a survival plan, and conducting due diligence to ensure you’re ready for…
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Attracting Assault: Victims’ Nonverbal Cues
Learn how your body language impacts your vulnerability to potential threats. Discover key insights from the Grayson and Stein study on non-verbal cues and victim selection and how to improve…
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The Art of Verbal Jiu-Jitsu: Communication Skills as Essential Self-Defense
In the realm of self-defense, our physical actions often gain the limelight. We admire the dexterity of martial artists or the prowess of boxers but often overlook the most fundamental…
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C-Tac System: Enhancing Personal Safety Through Professional Security Habits
In the world of executive protection, a singular lesson stands out prominently – think like your adversary.
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The Power of Environmental Design in Defensive Tactics Training
In the summer of 2009, I ventured into the fascinating world Of Personal protection. This was my maiden introduction to the Executive Protection Institute
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Pre-Attack Indicators: The Proactive Approach to Personal Safety in the C-Tac® System
In the realm of personal protection and self-defense, a term that often floats under the radar yet is of paramount importance is “Pre-Attack Indicators.”
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