While many arts evolved in different circumstances and at different times, they all share some major similarities. Most have a hierarchical structure, which is usually denoted by the color of a belt or a sash. The colors vary, but almost invariably white is the lowest, while black is the highest. Absolute obedience is owed to anyone with a higher rank. When two students are the same rank, seniority is usually based on age. A common legend is that in the \"old days\" a student would be given a white belt when he first joined the school, and he would have to train until the belt because black from years of accumulated sweat. Another common feature is the use of a central training school which would have one or two resident masters and to which students would join by paying a monthly fee. The school certifies that the student is worthy to hold the rank that he does. Later on, schools started unifying into federations that would jointly certify students. Different styles are also......
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