Quote:
Originally posted by SaMantis
Comparing that experience with my mantis studies, I see some similarities. However, as Hua Lin Laoshi points out, mantis throws (like many of its offensive techniques) are designed to inflict maximum damage.
In both judo & mantis, two important tactics are to (a) unbalance/uproot your opponent, then (b) exploit it. Because judo is a sport, exploiting the opponent means putting him onto the ground so that the judge sees your move was effective. Done right, you get the full point and the fight is over. In a combat system, exploiting the opponent's unbalanced position means inflicting damage so he doesn't get up -- the fight is over, and unfortunately sometimes so is the opponent.
Now think about that for a second.... what constitutes an ippon (full point)?
them being thrown squarely on their back. When the avg person is thrown down, their head will impact the ground, as they don't know how to fall. judo throws - the actual throw - does no less damage than styles from any other style. Some of them - o soto makikomi, for example, are known for injuring people. If I do a shoulder throw and stop my rotation half way through the throw, you will land on your head instead of your back. When throwing tai otoshi, if you block high on the knee, you can tear ligaments in their knee with the throw. the list goes on.
And although its techniques are designed to inflict
minimum damage, they can be compared with the techniques of combat-oriented systems. The methods may be similar, but the goals are different.
I don't think the goal is really that different. the 'ju' in judo translates to 'gentle', but the meaning is referring to the amount of effort put into the throw. Judo's main principle is maximum efficiency with minimum effort. by yielding to you (being gentle) and directiong your energy where I want it, I am able to throw you.