On October 8, 2026, the International Society of Applied Chess (ISAC) hosted the International Day of Applied Chess 2026, bringing together clinicians, researchers, educators, practitioners, and enthusiasts worldwide.
Under the theme “An introduction to therapeutic chess – background, methods and applications,” the free online event explored how chess can be utilized beyond sport—serving as a structured instrument to support mental health, cognitive functioning, emotional well-being, and personal development.
Throughout the session, international experts presented clinical studies, practical methodologies, and training manuals tailored for educational and therapeutic settings.
Speaker Presentations & Downloads
Participants can review the insights shared during the event and download the presentation slides directly below:
- Sabine Vollstädt-Klein – Welcome & Introduction, Scientific Background
- Nadezhda Kuzerman – Chess Therapy Program at the Rehabilitation Center "Chovekolubie"
- Juan Antonio Montero & Rodrigo Barbeito – Entrenamiento Cognitivo a través del Ajedrez (ECAM) / Cognitive Training through Chess: Introduction, Exercises, Experiences, and Applications
- Natalia De Blasio – GYMCHESS®: Introduction and Overview
- Roland Schmitt – Chess-Based Cognitive Remediation Therapy: Manual for Group Interventions, Introduction & Exercises
- Àlvar Farré-Colomés – Clinical Studies, Results, and Conclusions
Additional Resources & Literature
Training Manual on Chess‐Based Cognitive Remediation Therapy (CB‐CRT) (in German): https://zenodo.org/records/16901577
Training Manual on Chess‐Based Cognitive Remediation Training (CB‐CRT) (in English): https://www.protocols.io/view/chess-based-cognitive-remediation-training-manual-36wgqxzb3lk5/v1
For participants interested in exploring the scientific foundations, clinical trial data, and therapeutic frameworks discussed during the conference:
Download Comprehensive Literature List – curated collection of scientific papers, manual previews, and background readings on applied and therapeutic chess.
The International Society of Applied Chess thanks all speakers and attendees for contributing to a vibrant exchange at the intersection of neuroscience, psychology, education, and social inclusion.