The Philidor Position — Passive Defense: an endgame course

In the Philidor defense, restrict the attacking king, then switch to checks from behind when the pawn advances.

5 lessons, each followed by its own puzzle drill, then 10 themed puzzle packs.

• The Third Rank Wall — Use the rook’s rank to keep the attacking king out.
• Keep the Rook on the Third Rank — Maintain the defensive rank while the pawn stays behind it.
• The Trigger — Recognize when the pawn advance changes the defensive method.
• Check From Behind — Give checks from behind after leaving the defensive rank.
• The Held Draw — Check that the attacking king cannot find shelter from the checks.