This in turn means that we must concentrate on the situation. The attacker requires our full attention if we do not wish to run the risk of being struck because we have failed to perceive a threat. The period of full alertness must last as long as it takes to solve the problem posed by the attacker completely. One moment of inattention, a mental distraction or a momentary glance to the side, and everything was for nothing. We have not fulfilled our task and the other person has gained power over us. This means that WT people must give their undivided attention to the opponent – unbroken Chi-Sao contact – until the task has been completed.

Since the body forms and influences the mind and vice versa, it does not require much thought to realise the influence our physical training – and particularly Chi-Sao – can have on our day-to-day behaviour. Nowadays people find it increasingly difficult to remain constantly attentive and undistracted. Distractions await us around every corner, each of them louder and more colourful than those before. Many are unable to watch a single TV film right through to the end, zapping through all the available channels in case they miss something. And the result? They have had a brief look at everything, but enjoyed nothing in the way intended by the director. WT helps us to stick with things. To do something and see it through to the end. Perhaps this one thing will give us much more satisfaction, although we could have been doing other things.