How Chess resembles Bike Riding

I learned riding a bike in China as a kid, and biking there was a necessity for many daily tasks.

Since coming to the U.S., with cars as the main transportation tool, there was no need to continue to bike.

The next time I got on a bike was almost 15 years later, while on a vacation, I joined a biking tour.

As soon as I got my hands on the handles, there was a feeling of uncertainty. Even though I know that I can operate the bike, doubts and unfamiliarity constantly became my dominate awareness.

How does this relate to chess?

Many chess players (including myself) step out of the game from time to time, and each time we get back to the game, there are exciting feelings but at the same time a dose reacquainting to the unfamiliar.

An easy blunder will not be missed with constant practice, however, for a returning player with a recent layover, mistakes will happen.

Here is an example:

In the position above, black just played g6. Can you spot why this is a mistake?

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For those who occasionally need a break from chess, remember that coming back to chess often will feel like biking again after a long layover.

It's okay to feel the unfamiliar, but we just need to restart again. Continue on the journey, and enjoy the ride.