Nimzo training camp

Nimzo chess training camp in Kandersteg (14.-16.8.2026)

Our first training camp in Kandersteg was a great success. We had a weekend full of chess, beautiful hikes, and most importantly a lot of time spent together.

We had several intense and interesting training sessions, with plenty of discussion, analysis and sparring. Away from the distractions of everyday life, we could focus on the game and learn from one another. We trained how to defend under pressure, avoid blackout-ing important moves, reset our internal calm, and sacrifice both pawns and rooks in dubious gambits.

But the weekend was about more than chess. The beautiful Bernese mountains invited us to explore, and we enjoyed some fantastic hikes together. Some of us even gave climbing a try. Back at the hut, we shared raclette and other specialties, stories and plenty of laughs. The chess pub quiz was the highlight of Saturday night.

The successful camp was a collaboration with our friends from the chess club of Thun. Bringing our two communities together made the event even more special. A big thank you to Stefan for co-organising the whole thing and for helping make it such a memorable experience.

We came for the chess, but we left with much more: new ideas, stronger friendships, great memories, and hopefully the beginning of a tradition. It was a beautiful reminder that chess is not only about what happens over the board: it is also about the people you share the adventure with.