Improve your Brain Fitness by Playing Chess with Chess Learning Software

Posted by IchessU on July 4th, 2016

Brain scans and research have proved the association of chess with intelligence. Chess makes the individual use of both sides of the brain. The right side of the brain focuses on visuals and patterns whereas the analytical left side develops the ability to strategize moves and counter-moves. In his research Christian Jarrett, a recognized name in neuroscience quotes that a denser brain "…can be a sign of neural efficiency and a reflection of behavioral expertise." Opposing the fact that bigger is better, playing chess actually reduces the size of the brain. Though it seems contradictory, this is a good thing as concentrated neurons are more effective

It has long been known that concentration improves critical thinking ability. Playing chess makes one analyze patterns of the chessboard and an opponent’s moves. People who play chess consistently recognize patterns from earlier games. It gives them an analytical view about the consequences of any move. This skill applies in day-to-day life too. Chess moves are strategized but need to be altered for counters. It infuses the need for instantaneous thinking and logical approach. While amateur players use medial temporal lobe of the brain that focuses on long-term learning, professional players have their frontal lobe functioning the most. This part of the brain is associated with problem-solving capabilities.

Studies have proven that children who indulge in playing chess at an early stage tend to develop remarkable mathematical skills. Chess players develop an instinct for numbers that lets them excel in arithmetic and develop a predisposition for logical thinking. Chess players use the frontal cortex of the brain when making moves, thus improving problem-solving capability at early stages.

A survey found that students who played chess had a boost of 17%-20% in their aggregate academic performance test scores. The students knew how to plan their academic activities. It is related to critical thinking and good judgment of forthcoming activities and the ability to plan accordingly. It also builds a goal-oriented approach which translates to daily activities. Chess fosters mental alertness and high level of patience. It frames out the brains patterns for optimal memory utilization and functioning.

A creative mind sees and interprets patterns easily. The game of chess is all about strategically thinking about moves to reach the goal. Chess also requires creativity to have and sustain a winning streak. The process strengthens thinking and reasoning capabilities of an individual. If an individual starts playing chess at an early age, it is bound to boosts IQ and reasoning. It makes the brain active and practical, but also cautious and aware. Playing chess is a process of rigorous learning that out-flairs a player’s intellect. The mere abstract thinking of moves fires up the brain cells and makes them perform exceptional feats of reasoning and interpolation that are not possible ordinarily.

About the Author:

Albert Fishman has been involved in teaching chess since 1996 and is part of the IchessU coaching staff. IchessU is the best online chess school and their coaches are titled masters and grandmasters. Their students enjoy private or group chess lessons in online chess club.