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KUALA LUMPUR – A game for the physically unfit and the smart. Chess has often been categorized as a sport for the mentioned group of individuals.
However, upon our visit to Malaysian Chess Federation's latest training session, President Akhramsyah Muammar Ubaidah Sanusi pointed out the discrepancy between the stereotyped and reality of chess athletes.
“When you look at these athletes, you don’t see a single one who’s plus size. This is because these athletes need to be physically fit to be able to withstand a game that could potentially last up to four hours,” Akhram shares.
Contrary to the misconception that chess players are physically unfit, these athletes' physical must be able to last throughout a whole game without any breaks.
The longevity of the game challenges every athlete’s stamina to be able to finish just as strong – or stronger – as when they started.
This realization does not only heighten our sense of respect for these athletes but also towards the chess Paralympians.
Sure, we don’t see them running out of breath at the end of their match like other physical sport, but game stamina is stamina regardless of the sport.
Debunking the stereotype about their lack of physical capabilities.
So, what about the belief that chess is only for the smart and intellectually gifted individuals?
According to head coach, Sumant Subramaniam, chess is a game that grows with hard work.
“Natural talent plays a small role in chess. Chess is a game that requires a lot of hard work. In fact, I believe I became smarter after playing chess,” shares Sumant.
As the nature of the sport requires a lot of learning and discussion, it only makes sense that players get better and smarter along the way instead of vice versa.
Unlike the blanket understanding that chess is a game for smart people, chess is a game where players learn to be smart.
Debunking the stereotype that chess is only for the smart.
With this fresh understanding of chess, this sport might bring a new meaning to the term sexy. – The Vibes, 12 January, 2021
