When to Break the Tension — And When to Wait

Dear Chess Friends!

In many positions, the entire game hinges on a simple but essential question: should I release the central tension — or keep it?

I'd like to invite you to my upcoming workshop, "Tension in the Center," this Sunday. One of the most basic concepts in positional chess will be discussed: how central pawn tension, such as e4 vs. d5 or d4 vs. d5, defines outcomes, shapes plans, and generates opportunities. This involves timing, structure, and control in addition to deciding which pawn to push or capture.

🗓 Date: 06/22
⏰ Time: 11 a.m. EDT, 4 p.m. UK time, 5 p.m. CET 

During this session, you’ll learn:

• When maintaining central tension keeps your opponent tied down
• Why releasing it with exchanges or pawn breaks can activate your pieces
• How decisions in the center impact both flanks and endgame transitions
• Famous examples from openings like the Caro-Kann (Panov), Queen’s Gambit, Nimzo-Indian, King’s Indian, Grünfeld, and Ruy Lopez

Why should you attend?​
Almost every serious game has central tension, and those who manage it the best usually win. You have better long-term prospects, a more defined plan, and more control when you know how to handle it.

Register now and receive the Zoom-link before the event! Your participation is absolutely free, you just need to register here: https://chesslance.com/masterclass/

See you at the workshop,
FM Viktor Neustroev