Practice with caution to avoid injury
The side breakfall is presented at a beginner level. The arm closest to the floor should extend at a downward angle and imapct pressure should be disbursed evenly. The opposing hand should guard the face from injury. The legs should be controlled so as not to collide together upon impact to prevent injury to groin and leg joints.
The breakfall system is used to teach the beginner how to reduce injury when falling. Once the core understanding of the technique is achieved, it evolves with the practitioner's understanding to include additional application.