Chess blog for latest chess news and chess trivia (c) Alexandra Kosteniuk, 2011
Hi everyone,
This is a very interesting question we chanced upon at the website of the US Chess Trust. A very apt video goes along with the question. So, what do you think?
We’ve all heard of the “runner’s high”, which occurs when endorphins are activated by strenuous exercise.
Does something similar happen to chess players?
We've all reported feeling the “itch” to play.
Are we unknowingly craving a release of endorphins?
We all have experienced that “Aha” moment, when a difficult problem becomes clear. The solving of a thorny puzzle has always given me a feeling of satisfaction.
Is that feeling endorphin related, or is it something else?
Runners speak of a sense of unease when they can’t get in their regular run. We all know chess players who get antsy, if they can’t get a game. Is basic brain chemistry responsible for those feelings?
Hi everyone,
This is a very interesting question we chanced upon at the website of the US Chess Trust. A very apt video goes along with the question. So, what do you think?
We’ve all heard of the “runner’s high”, which occurs when endorphins are activated by strenuous exercise.
Does something similar happen to chess players?
We've all reported feeling the “itch” to play.
Are we unknowingly craving a release of endorphins?
We all have experienced that “Aha” moment, when a difficult problem becomes clear. The solving of a thorny puzzle has always given me a feeling of satisfaction.
Is that feeling endorphin related, or is it something else?
Runners speak of a sense of unease when they can’t get in their regular run. We all know chess players who get antsy, if they can’t get a game. Is basic brain chemistry responsible for those feelings?
You can post your answers here or at the USChessTrust link.
From Alexandra Kosteniuk's
Also see her personal blog at
I would have to be taken to a hospital if I cannot play chess when I want to which is every day.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely. I get depressed if I don't get to play chess because of lack of time. I need my dose at least once a week.
ReplyDelete