I think what YouKnowWho is saying is true in Judo as it's actually applied. The complete x-in-the-box 180-spin from a square stance is rare and people use set-ups, feints, combinations and so on to get to a staggered stance for a shorter entry. The idea that the canonical Judo version is completely necessary for learning the throw isn't true, because lots of other throwing styles don't have that as a method and they can still throw people around pretty good.
The 180 turn is not rare in Judo. For throws such as seoi nage it is very common. A step across stepping pattern is suited to a left vs right or right vs left stance. However, ff both players have the same stance (e.g. right vs right) a forward throw cannot be effectively performed without turning or breaking your opponents stance such that their feet positions reverse. Anyhow, the main points I wished to address were the suggestions that the fundamental forms as taught in nearly all dojo throughout the world need to be unlearned from ones body memory in order to progress and/or that learning an accurate fundamental form is largely a waste of time.
Traditional techniques are taught to teach principles and mechanics. The big movements are there to make you learn those principles. When you have mastered the technique and understand it well, ONLY THEN does it makes sense to make the technique smaller and more subtle. But if you can't do the technique properly and controlled to begin with, it makes no sense to worry about it being countered.
That's the traditional Judo way, but it isn't the only way. You can start with realistic situational variations using combinations and movement. The hard division of throwing "principles" is a good systematisation, but the world is full of wrestlers who can throw you on your head without ever once concerning themselves about the difference between guruma and harai.
