Understanding before Moving 16: Limiting the opponent’s activity

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2/28/2021 – Herman Grooten is an International Master, a renowned trainer and the author of several highly acclaimed books about chess training and chess strategy. In the 16th part of his ChessBase show "Understanding before Moving" Herman looks at ways to restrain the activity of your opponent. | Photo: Hans Hoornstra

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Understanding before Moving 16: Limiting the opponent's activity

In this show, we've talked about restricting the activity of enemy pieces before. Strong players try to keep their pieces active and they try to restrain the activity of the opponent. Tigran Petrosian, World Champion from 1963 to 1969, is particularly famous for his prophylactic play, this constant attempt to restraing the activity his opponent.

I have learned many strategic ideas and concepts by studying his games. You may consider yourself lucky if you manage to put one of his formidable strategic ideas into practice yourself.

In the study below (see diagram) White is a whole piece down. But because the bishop on c8 is restricted in its activity White manages to escape with a draw. How did he survive?

This week's show (for Premium Members only)