You’re finally making your full debut into the world of chess! But as you play more games, have you started to feel like this?
- “I just can’t seem to win…”
- “How can I actually get stronger?”
Simply playing game after game won’t necessarily help you improve efficiently. So this time, let’s look at three effective training methods that use the world’s largest chess platform, Chess.com, to boost your skills!
Training ①: Build a Solid Foundation with “Lessons”
First up is Chess.com’s Lessons feature.
From basic tactics to opening principles, you can study interactively with courses supervised by professional players.
Free members can take one lesson per day, but Gold members and above can access unlimited lessons.
You can study steadily every day, or dive in intensively — choose whatever suits your learning style.
Training ②: Train Your “Chess Brain” Daily with Puzzles!
As mentioned in a previous article, tactics puzzles are essential for improvement.
Just as a driver learns road signs, solving puzzles helps you naturally recognize winning patterns (tactical motifs).
- Tactics Trainer:Solve one puzzle at a time carefully
- Puzzle Rush:See how many you can solve within a time limit
Make these part of your daily routine — even just 10 minutes a day will sharpen your sense of position and keep you motivated.Treat it like a fun brain workout for your chess mind!
Training ③: Learn from Your Losses!
A painful loss can actually be your best teacher. Post-game analysis — reflecting on where and why you went wrong — is the secret to rapid improvement.
Chess.com’s Game Review feature uses AI to evaluate each move, showing exactly where you lost the advantage and which moves were mistakes or brilliancies. It’s like having a personal coach!
Unlimited access to detailed analysis is available for Platinum members and above, which is especially useful once you start playing frequently.
Chess.com Membership Information
Premium features on Chess.com (such as unlimited lessons and detailed game reviews) are a powerful tool for those aiming to reach the next level.
The Japan Chess Federation participates in the Chess.com affiliate program. By signing up for a new Diamond membership through the link below, you can receive a one-month free trial.
Furthermore, when you register for a premium membership via this link, a portion of your fee is shared with the Federation, which helps fund domestic tournaments and support our national team players. Please consider this opportunity to improve your skills while also supporting the chess community in Japan.
https://www.chess.com/special/JAPAN25?ref_id=6076418
(You will be redirected to an external site operated by Chess.com, LLC.
Please review their terms and procedures, especially regarding the free trial and automatic renewal, before you sign up.)
*The one-month Diamond membership free trial is available only to new users who register via the link above.
Please note that you will be automatically enrolled in an annual plan after the trial period ends.
Summary: After Online Training, Step into OTB!
Let’s recap the three key steps:
- Build knowledge with Lessons
- Train tactics daily with Puzzles
- Learn from experience through Post-Game Analysis
By repeating this cycle, your chess strength will steadily grow.
And the next step is… stepping into the real-world arena of OTB(Over the Board) chess!
Unlike online play, you’ll feel the weight of the pieces, read your opponent’s expressions, and experience true tension across the board.
The Japan Chess Federation regularly shares information about beginner-friendly events and chess clubs across the country.
Find a local club, meet fellow chess lovers, and enjoy the game together!
Link
Official Club List | Japan Chess Federation
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