Improvement Advanced

How GMs Train in 2026

Heellol De 1 min read

Modern grandmaster training looks nothing like 30 years ago. Today's GMs use engine-assisted preparation, massive databases, physical training programmes, and even mental performance coaches. Here's what a typical GM's training day looks like in 2026.

A typical GM day

  • Morning (3h): Opening preparation with Stockfish/Leela, checking novelties, preparing specific lines for upcoming opponents.
  • Afternoon (2h): Game analysis, reviewing recent tournament games, studying opponents.
  • Evening (1h): Tactical training, endgame study, or physical exercise.

What's changed

  1. Engine use is now universal, preparation goes to move 25+.
  2. Physical fitness is mandatory, Carlsen runs marathons, Firouzja trains daily.
  3. Second + preparation teams, top GMs have full teams.
  4. Mental performance coaching, sports psychologists work with top players.
  5. Training tools are vastly more sophisticated.
#improvement#grandmaster-training#modern-chess#advanced
Written by Heellol De
Chess Coach, ChessBhumi

A club-level tournament player and coach who has spent over a decade training junior and adult players. Writes about practical training habits and the small, fixable mistakes that hold back a club player's rating.

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