Why Learning to Play Bridge Might Be the Best Decision You Make This Year
So—what’s the big deal? Why do people fall in love with this wonderful game? Bridge offers so many things we need: fun, friendship, laughter, and a great way to keep the brain buzzing. In a world where we’re looking out for meaningful activities and social connections, bridge ticks every box.
Bridge is one of the best card games ever developed and it is played by millions of people worldwide. It’s a partnership game requiring co-operation, trust, and a good sense of humour – as your opponents can often spoil your best laid plans! There are so many possible deals in a pack of 52 cards that each hand you pick up tells a new story – making the game intriguing, exciting and sometimes challenging.
How to Play the Game
Bridge is a 4-player game in which partners, called North/South and East/West, sit opposite each other with the aim of scoring points by bidding and winning tricks (rounds of cards). There are two parts to bridge – bidding to win a contract and playing the cards to make the required number of tricks, or to defeat your opponents’ contract.
A Workout for the Brain
Research suggests that playing bridge has a positive effect on health and happiness. It sharpens memory, improves logical thinking, and encourages teamwork. Players talk of benefits such as enjoying the competition, increased opportunities for social interaction, and the mental stimulation provided. When players gain experience and confidence, the game is usually fast paced, with each deal lasting around 8-10 minutes.
Too late to Learn?
One of the biggest myths about bridge is that it’s too difficult to start later in life. The truth? It is a game for all ages and skill levels, and it is never too late to learn! Whether you’re 50, 70, or even 90, you can learn, enjoy, and even excel at it.
Why not start now?
If you have played whist or any trick taking game in the past, you will find familiar territory in bridge including tricks and trump suits. If you have never picked up a card before, you can learn the basics of the game after three or four lessons. You can use bridge software to practice; enjoy casual games with friends or compete online with players from around the world. Here are a few learning options:-
- The English Bridge Union: find a teacher near you
- Adult Education classes: available in most areas
- University of the Third Age: offer bridge groups
- Online Courses and Videos – learn at your own pace at home
Why do I teach Bridge?
I’m a professional member of the English Bridge Teachers’ Association and I am enthusiastic about teaching beginners and improvers of all ages. Although keen players are likely to progress to competitive club play, most enjoy casual games at home with friends and family. If you would like to learn more, Oasis Bridge Tuition offers free video lessons on YouTube for beginners and returners to the game.
So… What Is the Big Deal?
The game of Bridge brings people together, keeps minds active, and provides satisfaction (and the occasional amusing mishap!). Learn and enjoy the basics, with further opportunities to increase your skills and confidence. You can play this game for life and always be learning something new.
Maggie Hadley
Free video lessons