19 Karl Attkins - Big Wave Surfer

Have you ever wondered what separates the world's top big wave surfers from the rest? What mindset, preparation, and experiences drive someone to ride waves as tall as buildings?

In this episode of the Surf Mastery Podcast, Michael Frampton sits down with Karl Attkins, a self-made big wave surfer from Sydney's Northern Beaches. Karl shares his inspiring journey, from overcoming his fear of big waves as a teen to chasing the world's most intense swells—all while balancing a full-time job. If you're looking for insights into mastering fear, honing your craft, and pushing your limits, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

1. Learn how to mentally and physically prepare for big wave surfing and why preparation is key to overcoming fear.

2. Discover Karl's approach to training, including breathwork and lessons learned from surfing legends like Shane Dorian and Greg Long.

3. Hear about Karl's incredible stories, including his first trip to Shipstern Bluff and how commitment and intuition have guided his career.

Press play to learn the secrets to mastering your fears and unlocking your full potential in both surfing and life.

Key Points

• Karl discussed how being prepared is the number one key to surfing big waves.

• Karl shared his experience of getting towed into a wave at Ship's Dunes naked when Kelly Slater was there.

• Karl talked about his early fear of surfing big waves and how peer pressure and the surfing community helped him overcome that fear.

• Karl described his first experience surfing big waves at Ship's Dunes, where he got flogged and almost drowned before being towed into waves by Kobe Avedon.

• Karl discussed the importance of breath training and working with Nan Baldwin to prepare for surfing big waves.

• Karl emphasized the value of traveling and chasing swells to progress in big wave surfing.

• Karl shared his experience of breaking his leg while surfing 4-foot waves at home and ignoring the signs that it wasn't his day.

• Karl talked about the commitment and drive required to be a successful big wave surfer.

• Karl discussed the importance of having the right equipment, including boards specifically designed for big waves.

http://www.bettraining.com/

http://www.aidosurfboards.com/

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.