The Northern Eagle Claw System of kung fu is based upon a set of "108 fighting techniques" devised by General Ngok Fei during the time of the Sung Dynasty (c. 1125 AD). These techniques are unique in their comprehensive use of joint locks, traps, and take-downs to diffuse aggressive energy and immobilize an attacker. These techniques make effective use of the hand fashioned as a grasping eagle's claw (Ying Jow) to deliver devastating locks and traps (often referred to broadly as "chin na" or grappling techniques).

The Northern Eagle Claw system is ideal for both men and women of various age groups, body types, and athletic ability. Because the system relies upon subtle redirection of an attacker's own aggressive energy, it can be used effectively regardless of the practitioner's size or strength.

During the time of the Ming Dynasty, a monk named Lai Chin incorporated General Ngok Fei's fighting techniques with elements of the Faan Tzi system. Faan Tzi techniques are based upon swift, open and often acrobatic movements designed to out-maneuver and dominate an opponent. The combination of Ying Jow Pai (Eagle Claw) with Faan Tzi techniques yielded the system known today as Northern Eagle Claw kung fu (Ying Jow Faan Tzi Pai).