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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Crafting a Personal Code in the Combat Arts.
Explore the art of developing a personal Warrior’s Code in ‘Crafting a Personal Code in the Combat Arts’. Delve into the ethical and philosophical depths of combat arts, beyond physical…
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Think the thought the Thinker thought.
In “Think the Thought the Thinker Thought,” Alan Baker shares his educational process and principles guiding his martial arts study. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the original intent behind…
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Rethinking Grappling in the Age of Everyday Carry
Discover the transformative journey of integrating Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo, and Combat Submission Wrestling with firearms training for a comprehensive self-defense strategy. Learn how the fusion of grappling and tactical readiness…
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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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Course Update: Living Mechanics Curriculum – Purple To Brown
Course Update: Living Mechanics Curriculum | Purple To Brown Module 3 Mount From Side Cycle Unit 1 Mount From Side – Fetal Position ControlsUnit 2 Mount From Side – Controls…
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Course Update: Living Mechanics Curriculum – Blue To Purple
Greetings Living Mechanics Members! Course Update: Living Mechanics Curriculum Blue To Purple | Mount From Side Cycle | Mounts From Side Enjoy!
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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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The Warrior’s Resilience: Lessons from a Lifetime Martial Artist
Explore the essence of a warrior’s resilience in this insightful article by Sifu Alan Baker, a lifetime martial artist. Delve into personal anecdotes, lessons from martial arts, and wisdom from…
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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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Embracing Bruce Lee’s ‘Way of No Way’ in Personal Development and Training
Explore ‘Embracing Bruce Lee’s Way of No Way in Personal Development and Training.’ Dive into the philosophy of adaptability, open-mindedness, and continuous learning, inspired by Bruce Lee. Discover how to…
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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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Course Update: Curriculum – White To Blue
Greetings Living Mechanics Members! New curriculum videos now available! White To Blue Module 4: Escape From Side Cycle Module 6: Mount From Side Cycle Module 7: Mount Escapes Cycle
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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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Adapting And Thriving: Martial Arts Journey through the Ages
Explore the lifelong martial arts journey, adapting to age, embracing mental resilience, and thriving while celebrating personal growth. Discover the evolution from physical challenges to the fighter’s mindset, and the…
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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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The 2024 Living Mechanics Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Conference
Explore the unique Living Mechanics Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu approach at our Annual Conference in Woodstock, GA, with renowned instructors like Professors Creighton and Jimenez. Dive into advanced grappling techniques, self-defense, and…
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Developing a Warrior’s Mindset: The Path to Inner Strength and Resilience
“Discover the essence of the warrior’s mindset and how to cultivate resilience, honor, and leadership in the modern world. Dive deep into the Gentleman’s Code, the primal essence of the…
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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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Harnessing the Warrior Mindset: A Deep Dive into Strength, Education, and Well-Being
Explore the Warrior Mindset in this comprehensive guide, delving into the importance of physical training, mental fortitude, and nutritional discipline. Learn how strategic thinking, continuous self-education, and a holistic approach…
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Breathing to Thrive: Unveiling the Transformative Power of Breath Work
Explore the transformative power of breath training and Qigong in this enlightening article. Discover how these ancient practices promote physical health, emotional balance, and spiritual connection, offering a pathway to…
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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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Expanding Beyond Contraction: The Vital Role of Posture and Joint Health
Discover the transformative power of expansion and posture in ‘Expanding Beyond Contraction: The Vital Role of Posture and Joint Health.’ Dive into the benefits of joint health, the importance of…
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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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