At first glance, chess may seem to be difficult to learn and only for the super-intelligent to play. However, regardless of personal factors such as age or IQ, playing chess has numerous benefits for everyone. Let’s find out what they are!
1. Improves problem-solving skills
In a game of chess, there are a multitude of challenges that need to be overcome to win the game. This requires planning, patience, and careful consideration, which are all vital to solving problems beyond the chessboard.
2. Increases concentration
Complete concentration is required to play your best game of chess. Even if you play perfectly for the first half of the game, a single mistake in the second half can lead to defeat. Learning to focus like this helps complete daily tasks and deadlines.
3. Boosts creativity
Despite its logical nature, playing chess is also a way to become more creative! Oftentimes, there are many ways to achieve the same objective. Your imagination and creativity is exercised to devise the method you will take.
4. Reduces the risk of Dementia and other neurodegenerative conditions
Playing chess is like taking your brain out for a jog. It keeps it fit and healthy, lowering your chances of getting diseases such as Alzhimer’s Disease or dementia.
5. Develops sportsmanship
While winning is the objective, it is inevitable that you will be defeated from time to time - the important part is to review the losses and return as a stronger player. Regardless of the outcome, both players shake hands at the end of the match, teaching how to both win and lose gracefully.
6. You can meet people and make friends
As one of the most popular games around the world, chess is played across borders and cultures. This allows you to play and learn with people of various backgrounds.
7. Raises self-confidence and self-esteem
Aside from increasing brianpower, chess also evevates your self-confidence. Being able to win a purely skill based game like this is no easy feat. Even in the case of defeat, the courage to challenge your opponent is something to be proud of.
8. Enhances ability to work under pressure
Arguably the most crucial part of the game, the endgame is where many matches are won or lost. Critical decisions must be made quickly under the pressure of the chess clock. To win, you must remain completely focused and calm, something that is vital in any time -pressured situation.
9. Your entire brain is exercised when playing chess
Studies have shown that when you play chess, both sides of your brain are active. This means that you can improve all aspects of cognitive function, such as motor skills and spatial reasoning. Playing chess at a young age can also encourage nerve cell growth in your brain.
10. Chess is a fun game to play
Last but not least, chess is very fun to play. With the entire game determined by your own decisions and thinking, nothing beats the satisfaction of achieving a hard-won checkmate.
