07 Nathan Hedge

How can you unlock more speed, control, and power in your surfing—while keeping the fun alive for decades to come?

In this episode of the Surf Mastery Podcast, host Michael Frampton dives deep with professional surfer Nathan Hedge to explore how the world's top surfers continuously improve. From mindset and technique to equipment and nutrition, this conversation is packed with insights for surfers of all levels who want to maximize their potential and joy in the water.

1. Discover the mental strategies elite surfers use to stay focused and in sync with the ever-changing ocean.

2. Learn how small adjustments in technique, like widening your stance or refining your paddling, can dramatically improve your performance.

3. Hear expert advice on choosing the right board and how to read waves like a pro, no matter the conditions.

Don't miss this episode—tune in now to gain valuable insights from two of surfing's most passionate and knowledgeable voices.

Key Points

• Nathan Hedge discussed the challenging conditions at Bells Beach, including the different wave speeds, buoyancy with wetsuits, and the need for proper rail and board setup to handle the various sections of the wave.

• He explained the importance of reading the wave and applying the right turns at the right sections to achieve good speed, flow, and ride quality at Bells Beach.

• Nathan highlighted the significance of developing a relationship with a break by surfing it under different conditions and tides to better connect with the wave.

• He emphasized the role of equipment choice, particularly board dimensions and foam, in enabling intermediate surfers to progress and have more fun by catching more waves and maintaining speed.

• Nathan discussed the impact of his upbringing and the environment he surfed in, particularly North Narrabeen, in shaping his surfing style and exposing him to role models and a high level of talent.

• He mentioned the importance of being present and focused in the moment during heats, avoiding distractions, and sticking to a strategy tailored to the conditions.

• Nathan talked about the benefits of working on specific techniques during free surfs, such as arm positioning, rotation, and weight distribution, to improve his surfing.

• He discussed the role of nutrition, hydration, and being in tune with his body's needs in supporting his surfing performance.

• Nathan shared his current favorite surfboards, the Channel Islands Ruk 15 and Bobby Martinez MBM models, and their respective characteristics that enhance his surfing.

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.