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General overview of grades

This ladder is not yet attributed to a specific organisation. Federations differ in belt colours and time requirements.

Ying Jow Pai (Eagle Claw System), tracing roots to General Yue Fei in the 12th century and systematized by the Lau family in Hong Kong, is a Northern Chinese style famous for rapid Chin Na joint locking. The Duanwei system (1st to 6th Duan) evaluates 108 joint trapping techniques, finger conditioning, kicks, and Xing Quan forms.

1st Duan – Green Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 6 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Basic Mabu stance, finger conditioning, and first Eagle Claw form Xing Quan.

Symbolism & Meaning

Famous Northern Chinese wushu style of legendary 12th-century General Yue Fei.

2nd Duan – Blue Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 12 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

108 Chin Na joint-locking techniques (Lien Tsi Kuen), tendon tearing, and parries.

Symbolism & Meaning

Crushing Eagle Claw grip targeting tendons, arteries, and pressure points.

3rd Duan – Silver Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 18 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Ying Jow Lin Kuen form, Jian straight sword, and leaping acrobatic sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

Harmonizing high eagle leaps with lightning pounce on the opponent.

4th Duan – Black Level

Typical gap since previous grade: 24 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Qiang spear combat, Dao broadsword, paired counters, and Sanda sparring.

Symbolism & Meaning

High level of combat maturity in comprehensive Northern Chinese wushu.

5th Duan – Gold Level (Sifu)

Typical gap since previous grade: 36 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Awarding Sifu title. Running Kwoon and transmitting Lau Fat Mang's legacy.

Symbolism & Meaning

Sifu = Certified teacher and guarantor of Eagle Claw school tradition.

6th Duan – Gold Dragon (Grandmaster)

Typical gap since previous grade: 60 monthsestimate

Requirements & Focus

Highest achievable rank. Living legend and supreme Eagle Claw grandmaster.

Symbolism & Meaning

Grandmaster = Direct guardian and bearer of General Yue Fei's legacy in modern era.