The sect is headed by the chief (), who represents the highest authority in the sect. Each chief is selected from a pool of nominees based on his/her prowess in martial arts, contributions to the sect, personal conduct and popularity, among other factors. The chief carries the revered Dog Beating Staff () as a symbol of leadership. The sect have various practices and customs, such as the one which allows all members to spit once on a newly elected chief as a form of salute.