Hi guys - a question from a curious newbie...
First of all, I don't practise judo - but I watch it on TV whenever I can (and the style of (British) jujutsu I train in is fairly heavily based on judo).
My question concerns the origins of the 'Ippon' score in tournaments being defined as a clean throw which results in the opponent landing on their back.
My curiosity is due to watching so many competitors twisting in mid air as they were thrown to minimise the score.
Now it seems to me that (from a self-defence point of view) being thrown onto your back would be preferable to being thrown onto your front, as you would still be able to see your attacker.
So is the Ippon 'on your back' thing because
a) it's easier for tournament referees to see
b) when executed correctly most throws result in Uke landing on their back anyway?
Also, am I correct about the self-defence aspect, or would you prefer to land on your front (for easy breakfalling/quick getaways)?
Cheers,
Mike