66 My Favorite Episode with Clayton Nienaber

Are you pushing harder and surfing faster but still not feeling flow or unlocking true performance on waves?

In this deeply personal and technically rich episode, surf coach and shaper Clayton Nienaber breaks down why traditional surf technique often fails — and how one session on Kelly Slater's board sparked a complete rethinking of his approach. From power generation to posture, leaning, twisting, and compression, this conversation reveals the subtle shifts that separate average surfers from elite performers.

• Learn the critical difference between squatting and lunging that could completely transform your bottom turn.

• Discover how Clayton decoded Slater's surfing technique — and how you can apply it today.

• Find out why fast boards don't matter if you're surfing flat and how to harness real rail engagement.

Hit play to uncover the specific cues and biomechanics that will help you surf faster, with more flow, and less effort — no matter your level.

Key Points

• The discussion included Clayton Nienaber's 12-week surfing challenge and the importance of taking action to support the show.

• Clayton Nienaber discussed his early life, moving to Blito, and beginning to surf at age 13.

• Clayton shared the challenges of surfing with diabetes and how it affected his social life and focus on surfing.

• Clayton described the transition from coaching to pro surfing, focusing on learning techniques from other surfers like Taylor Knox and Kelly Slater.

• The discussion on surfing technique emphasized the importance of a lunge position over a squat for better wave engagement and speed.

• Michael and Clayton analyzed Kelly Slater's surfing technique in detail, highlighting the lunge position, compression, and twisting movements.

• Michael highlighted the importance of technique over equipment in surfing, using the example of a surfer performing well on various boards.

• Clayton announced two one-week surfing coaching clinics at Macaroni's, with details provided in the show notes.

• Clayton introduced the new Spinetech technology for surfboards, emphasizing its benefits for performance and durability.

https://ombe.co/12-week-program-asp-sm/

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For the passionate surfer—whether you're a weekend warrior, a surf dad, or an older surfer—this podcast is all about better surfing and deeper stoke. With expert surf coaching, surf training, and surfing tips, we'll help you catch more waves, refine your paddling technique, and perfect your pop up on a surfboard. From surf workouts to handling wipeouts, chasing bigger waves, and mastering surf technique, we're here to make sure you not only improve but truly enjoy surfing more—so you can get more out of every session and become a wiser surfer. Go from Beginner or intermediate Surfer to advanced.