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The Power Of Form And Presence

The Power Of Form And Presence

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Why does classical ballet training in Russia emphasize developing perfect technique from a very young age (3-5 years old)? ⁣

I pondered this question as I started a workout at my local gym - my first workout in far too long - following through on a commitment I made to my coach. ⁣

In my case, my main reason for focusing on 'form' with the machines (practicing with the lowest possible weight at first) was to minimize the risk of injury, and ensure I was using the machines correctly before later moving to more difficult weights. ⁣

However, there was another, more surprising, benefit to focusing on form. ⁣

My mind was clear. ⁣

Almost no intrusive thoughts invaded my head for the full half hour (even with the background pop music playing). ⁣

Only when you're able to turn off the mind chatter, and be here, in the now, dp you regain agency over your life (as opposed to your mind and emotions).  ⁣

Only when you get 'in the zone' - fully focused and present in your current action - can you show your full potential. ⁣

The biggest thing that helped me improve when I was already a Grandmaster, funnily enough, was not the advanced strategies I studied, but rather, mastering the fundamentals. ⁣

Making sure I never missed a simple tactic.⁣
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Knowing the model games from my openings (so I could play the middlegames well). ⁣

Having routines to get present and 'in the zone' for my games, and only playing when I felt in that right headspace. ⁣

There are many terms for it - sports psychology in sports, mental game in poker, inner peace in spirituality, mindset in self-improvement - but ultimately, staying humble and constantly refining your fundamentals is what will separate you from the pack.

By the way, here's my first rated bullet game in about 6 months:

Are You A Chess Player Who Wants To Improve 100-200 Points In The Next 3 Months?

I'm looking for students who:


- Are passionate about chess;


- Are based in Australia, the Americas or East Asia;


- Are rated above 1600 (if you're below 1600, I have a curriculum to get you to 1600+ rapidly);

- Want to improve your chess as quickly, efficiently, and enjoyably as possible;


Once I reach my limit, I won't accept any more private students.


To discover more about how I can help you improve your play and subsequently, raise your chess ratings quickly, send me an email at illingworthchess@gmail.com, or direct message me on Facebook: m.me/max.illingworth.16 

 

The First Chess.com Coach Of The Month

https://www.chess.com/article/view/coach-of-the-month-gm-max-illingworth