A chess training session has been organized for members of Azerbaijan’s junior national judo team.
As reported by İdman.Biz, citing the press service of the Azerbaijan Judo Federation, the activity was held as part of a training camp and had a developmental focus. The main goal of the session was to improve the judokas’ ability to make quick decisions, as well as to enhance their strategic thinking and analytical skills.
Chess is viewed as an effective tool for the cognitive preparation of athletes. The intellectual game helps develop the ability to analyze situations, anticipate an opponent’s actions several moves ahead, maintain concentration, and make optimal decisions under time pressure. All of these qualities are directly applicable in judo, where the outcome of a bout is often decided in a matter of seconds.
Experts also note that chess training has a positive impact on executive functions such as attention, working memory, and self-control. A number of scientific studies on cognitive development in children and adolescents confirm that regular chess practice contributes to improved analytical thinking and greater resistance to stress, which is especially important for athletes in competitive environments.
It is emphasized that this format of activity not only helps judokas develop intellectual skills, but also allows them to spend their free time during training camps in a more productive and beneficial way, fostering qualities essential for consistent and successful performances on the tatami.
