Eagle Claw is one of the most traditional Wushu styles. In Chinese, the traditional term for this style is Ying Zhao Pai (鷹爪派), meaning "Eagle Claw Lineage." In modern Wushu, it is commonly referred to as Ying Quan (鷹拳), which means "Eagle Fist" or "Eagle Style."
Eagle Claw is an external style known for its powerful gripping techniques, joint locks, and pressure point strikes. However, modern Eagle Claw forms—used in performances and competitions—also exist. These modern routines are more visually appealing, often featuring acrobatics and dynamic running movements.
The downside of modern Eagle Claw is that the practical combat applications are often lost. In China, most young athletes begin by learning modern forms. Later, if they choose to specialize in Eagle Claw, they study the traditional applications and standardized routines. This approach is popular because younger athletes are more agile and enjoy performing acrobatic techniques like jump kicks.
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Instructions
We currently offer one instructional video of a modern Eagle Claw performance:
50-Second Eagle Claw Shaolin Show Form
Technique Highlight:
Split Kick
Style Info
Eagle Claw is believed to have originated in the Shaolin Temple and the Chinese military around the year 1130.
Founder:
Yue Fei (1103–1141) — a general during the Song Dynasty (Note: not the Ming Dynasty).
Advice
If you're still young and want to learn Eagle Claw Wushu, begin with modernized forms.
Be sure to practice basic Wushu fundamentals before diving into modern Eagle Claw techniques.
Suggestions
Videos
