Why do martial arts need ranks?
The hierarchy of martial arts is a reflection of a practitioner’s competency in the system. Each level of training includes more advanced physical techniques and an understanding of the art that can only be gained through time. For this reason, simply learning the defensive and offensive techniques of the martial arts is not enough to advance to a higher rank. A deeper understanding of the philosophical nature of combat and life must also be acquired for the practitioner to progress to advanced levels.
