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.
126 articles in Training
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The Difference Between A Sun Student And A Moon Student.
A Moon Student is someone who reflects light. In other words, they faithfully reproduce what they have learned, often with impressive precision and accuracy. They can take a technique, a…
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Course Update: Back Submissions Cycle
Greetings Living Mechanics Members! Curriculum Update: Back Submissions Cycle Flow Drills – Back Back Attacks – White To Blue Back Attacks – Blue To Purple Back Attacks – Purple To…
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Reclaiming Control Through the Full Cycle Breath
In the Warrior’s Path Program, one of the core tools we teach for self-mastery is the breath. Not just as a function of survival, but as a transformation method. Breath…
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Indian Club Swinging: A Lost Physical Culture Art
I was first introduced to the Indian club swinging by my Burmese Bando instructors; at that time, I had to have a local woodworker build a pair of clubs for…
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Mind Boxing: Developing the Warrior’s State of Mind
One of the questions I’m frequently asked is how to develop the mental “switch,” that ability to activate aggression and step into decisive action the moment it’s needed. Whether you’re facing overwhelming odds in a self-defense…
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The Shift To The Empty-Hand Focus In The Martial Arts
Over my 45-plus years of involvement in the martial arts and defensive tactics industry, I’ve witnessed significant shifts in how these arts are practiced and taught, particularly in the United…
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Mastering Tension Control: The Hidden Key to Strength and Resilience
One of the most overlooked aspects of physical performance is not just how strong you are, but how well you control tension in your body. While most training programs emphasize output, lifting heavier, moving…
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Reflections on the Living Mechanics Conference in Sarasota
Last week, I had the privilege of traveling to Sarasota, Florida, to work with Lavonne Martin and her team in preparation for the Living Mechanics Annual Conference over the weekend. This marked our third year hosting this event,…
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The Power of Taking Action
Taking real action is one of the most powerful tools for change available to you. I don’t see myself as a naturally gifted person, but what I do have is the ability to put…
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Course Update: Living Mechanics Curriculum – White To Blue Flow Drills – 2025
Four New Sections Added: Flow Drills – 2025 – Introduction Flow Drills – 2025 – Side Control Flow Drills – 2025 – Mount Flow Drills – 2025 – Guard
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Physical Culture is Your Medicine: Dont Be A Stranger To The Gift of Struggle
The human body is an extraordinary machine capable of incredible strength, endurance, and adaptation feats. It is designed to thrive under the right conditions, and when you honor its needs, it rewards…
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Mastering Critical Distance: The Lost Art of Bridging in Combat
Sifu Alan Baker throwing a jab on a focus mitt while training with Guro David Mitchel
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Breaking Down the Ground Section of the C-Tac Combat Blueprint
Recently, I’ve received several questions about the ground section of the C-Tac Combat Blueprint, specifically about how we divide it into multiple parts and the reasoning behind this approach. Understanding the structure…
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The Art of Drilling: Unlocking Skill And Attribute Development
In the world of martial arts and combative training, the practice of drilling is often misunderstood or undervalued. I frequently hear comments like, “That drill doesn’t look like real fighting,” or, “Fighting…
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Striking in the Combat Blueprint: Mastering the Art of Striking
To distill the vast and complex field of martial arts into its most effective elements, I created the Combat Blueprint. Martial arts encompasses an overwhelming array of techniques and styles, making it challenging to…
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The 4-Man Box Drill: Why There Are No Leads In Dynamic Combat
In the world of self-offense-defense (Combatives), there are no true leads (fighting stances), and yes, I intentionally use the term “self-offense-defense.” The more I reflect on the traditional term “self-defense,”…
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THE NEW Protection Response Tactics Train-The-Trainer Program Coming In 2025
Defensive tactics in the security and protection industry must go far beyond the simple repackaging of martial arts techniques, which is, unfortunately, all too common in the field. While martial arts are valuable…
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The Power of Consistency in Training and Life
Consistency is one of the most underrated yet powerful tools for success. Whether stepping onto the mat, investing in personal growth, or building strong relationships, consistency is the thread that…
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Foundational Elements of the Warriors Path – Warriors Strength Program
Physical culture is a term used to describe the activities and philosophies people have employed throughout history to improve their physical and mental well-being. Physical culture includes practices aimed at…
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Maintaining the Machine: The Power of Small Action Steps In Your Fitness Journey
Discover the power of small steps in fitness and recovery. Learn how maintaining your body, the ‘human machine,’ can build resilience, strength, and long-term success
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Todays Certificate Culture & The Old-School Mentor
Over the years, I have garnered many nicknames from being deeply immersed in the culture of The Combat Arts. One of these nicknames was bestowed upon me by my students:…
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Swordsmanship in Martial Studies And Personal Development
Dive into the rich tradition of martial arts and swordsmanship, exploring how ancient disciplines enhance personal growth, leadership, and ethical conduct. Discover the profound impact of the warrior’s mindset in…
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The Evolution of Self-Defense: Integrating Firearms and Combatives Training
In the expansive realm of self-defense training, two disciplines consistently capture the spotlight: firearms training and combatives. Enthusiasts frequently dedicate their weekends to mastering these skills, often focusing on refining…
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Avoiding Martial Arts Dogma And Navigating the Full Spectrum of Violence.
Don’t let your martial arts training confine your potential. In previous discussions, I’ve emphasized the importance of avoiding becoming too systemized in your approach to learning martial arts. By this,…
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Developing Timeless Tools And The Good Old Days
This article delves into the importance of staying present and continuously learning in martial arts, challenging practitioners to shift focus from past glories to current opportunities. It emphasizes the development…
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Integrating Martial Arts into Modern Fitness Regimes: A Holistic Approach to Health and Wellness
Explore the importance of self-defense and martial arts in today’s world. Learn how training in martial arts and defensive tactics offers more than just physical fitness, providing essential skills for…
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