How can chess players build stamina?

Building stamina for chess involves both physical and mental components:

1. Physical Exercise: Engaging in regular cardiovascular activities such as swimming, running, or biking is crucial. These exercises build the energy reserves needed for long games, as chess players can burn a significant amount of calories due to the game's intensity. Maurice Ashley emphasizes that no top-level player is overweight, highlighting the necessity of physical fitness 1.

2. Early Training: Start young and play frequently. The discipline required for extended focus develops over years of consistent practice. When beginning, mistakes teach players to slow down and think critically, building the mental discipline necessary for longer games 1.

3. Meditation and Mindfulness: Techniques like meditation help quiet the mind and improve focus, preventing players from becoming distracted or overly anxious during games. Maurice Ashley mentions that activities like Aikido have also been beneficial for enhancing focus and strategic thinking 1.

4. Consistent Practice: Regularly playing chess, even when challenging, gradually builds the endurance needed to concentrate for extended periods. The consistent effort and experience eventually increase mental stamina 1.

By combining these strategies, chess players can effectively build the stamina required for high-level competition.