My Hobbies

Running

In my free time, one of the things that I enjoy doing is long-distance running. I first started long-distance when I joined cross-country(XC) in 7th grade and, I’ll be honest, when I first started, it was very difficult. When it is hot, you end up drenched in sweat that drips to the ground periodically with every step taken. When it is cold, breathing ends up feeling like your lungs are burning. Not to mention, as a beginner, bad form and muscular imbalances make injuries such as shin splints or rolled ankles commonplace. However, as I got used to the challenge and improved my form, I found that running was pretty enjoyable.

Piano

I started playing piano when I was in 1st grade. Most of the music that I played was a variety of classical and jazz. The latest song I have been trying to learn is "Clair De Lune" by Debussy. Here is my favorite rendition of it by one of my favorite Youtube channels, Rousseau. However, I have gotten sidetracked from that as right now, I am more fond of improvising my own music, something my piano teacher calls noodlin’.

Chess

One more thing that I sometimes enjoy doing in my free time is learning chess. I mostly play online chess and my favorite time format is 3 minute blitz no increments. However, if one of my brothers is willing to play, I am happy to play with them. Another one of my favorite Youtube channels to watch is Agadmator. He mainly covers interesting chess games that he finds out in the chess world. I enjoy hearing his analysis and comments. Lately, I have not been playing as many games and I have mostly been going on to chess sites and trying out their chess puzzles. Try some of my favorites here.