EN
Background: Symmetry of movement actions in sport is considered as an element of versatilitywhich enlarges an individual’s technical and tactical capacity. Asymmetry usuallylimits this capacity and may also lead to overstrains of one side of the body andcause an injury. The research is done on health aspects and practical improvement insport contest. Up-to-date research on judo contest effectiveness has been aimed atthe ability of throwing into various directions. There is no material and data as comparedto the directions of throwing and effective directions of the opponent’s attack.The purpose of this research was to find relationships between the directions of theexecuted throws and the side of competitors’ bodies used while throwing.Material/Methods: Within 2005-2010 1,968 judo contests were recorded by means of a graphic method ofrecording of a judo contest during 587 domestic and international judo competitions. 12competitors (6 men and 6 women) were subject to our observations. The effectivenessof throws performed into 4 directions and of the used body side was determined on thegrounds of the average number of points won or lost during a contest.Results: The effectiveness of judo throws performed to the left direction or by using the leftside of the body is similar or higher to those performed to the other side. There isa relationship between the dominant part of the body while throwing and the directionsof throwing, and the defense efficiency in relation to the directions and ways ofexecuting throws by opponents.Conclusions: The effectiveness of the left attack directions and using the left side of the body mayresult from the training practice. It seems rational to find reasons for such high effectivenessof the