Surf Mastery - Surfing Tips and Wisdom for Lifelong Surfers

What if slowing down—not speeding up—is the real secret to becoming a better surfer? In a surf world obsessed with progression and performance, pro surfer and filmmaker Kyle Thiermann offers a refreshing perspective: surfing as self-reflection. Whether you're battling impatience in the lineup or stuck on a plateau in your skills, Kyle's insights into slowing down, noticing more, and redefining success will resonate deeply. Learn how riding single fins and surfing slower can lead to faster progress and deeper enjoyment. Discover why setting small, realistic goals can unlock big leaps in performance and confidence. Hear how Kyle applies the same hyper-awareness from hunting and podcasting to his surfing—and how you can do the same. Listen now to transform how you think about progression in surfing, and learn how slowing down could be the key to finally leveling up. Key Points Kyle discussed how riding a single fin surfboard forces him to slow down and focus on the fundamentals of surfing, like bottom turns. Kyle mentioned that surfing heavier waves like Puerto Escondido taught him to read the ocean better and notice details like rip currents and wave formations. Kyle talked about the importance of having surfing mentors, like Tyler Fox, who taught him when to say no to surfing in dangerous conditions. Kyle discussed how visualizing and preparing mentally for upcoming surf sessions can help slow down time and notice more details while surfing. Kyle emphasized the value of learning new skills like hunting to regain a beginner's mindset and stay engaged in the learning process. Kyle reflected on the deeper meaning of surfing as a way to connect with nature and notice more in life. Kyle encouraged getting in the ocean regularly, whether surfing, swimming, or just being present, as a way to appreciate living on a "water planet." Check out his podcast on iTunes or here: http://www.kyle.surf/podcast/ Kyle's TED talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQIt2JUF-sg 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.

Ever had a perfect wave where everything just clicked—but couldn't figure out how to recreate it? That magical state of surfing where time slows down, decisions happen effortlessly, and your body flows without overthinking? That's a flow state. In this deep dive with elite performance coach Nam Baldwin, we unpack the science of getting "in the zone"—and how you can train your body and mind to access it more often, even in average conditions. Discover how flow states unlock not only better performance but faster learning and deeper enjoyment. Learn the specific warm-up strategies and mental triggers that elite athletes use to consistently access peak states. Understand how your breath, posture, and self-talk can either guide you into—or pull you out of—your best surfing. Hit play now and learn how to harness the power of flow to surf with more confidence, clarity, and control every time you paddle out. Key Points Nam Baldwin, named as the Elite Performance Specialist for Surfing Australia heading towards the 2020 Olympics. Nam explains the concept of 'flow state' or 'being in the zone' as a mental state where one's attention is fully focused on the present moment, allowing optimal performance without distractions. Nam discusses the factors that contribute to an individual's ability to enter a flow state, such as genetics, neural chemistry, and consistent practice from a young age. Nam emphasizes the importance of finding one's optimal state of arousal and regulating attention through techniques like proper warmup and breath work. Nam suggests using triggers or anchors, such as posture or self-talk, to help re-enter a flow state after falling out of it during a surfing session. Nam highlights the role of managing expectations and simplifying goals to avoid overthinking and anxiety, which can hinder the flow state. Nam recommends recovery strategies after experiencing a flow state, such as rest, proper nutrition, and mindfulness practices, to replenish the hormones and chemicals involved. Nam suggests resources like the books 'The Rise of Superman' by Steven Kotler and 'The Edge Effect' by Dr. Eric Braverman for further understanding of flow states and hormonal balance. http://www.equalize.com.au/ http://www.stealingfirebook.com/ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y1MHyyWsMeE https://www.bravermantest.com/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flow_(psychology) https://www.ted.com/talks/mihaly_csikszentmihalyi_on_flow 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.

Are your bottom turns killing your speed—or unlocking your next-level surfing? Most surfers think they need more power, a better board, or perfect waves to improve—but what if it's really about mastering your posture and tuning in to the wave itself? In this episode, pro surfer and coach Clayton Nienaber reveals the subtle body mechanics that separate average surfers from the greats, using detailed breakdowns and firsthand insights. Learn why leaning, twisting, and compressing—not pushing—are the true foundations of powerful, flowing turns. See how posture mistakes, like squatting instead of lunging, silently ruin your speed and control. Discover how to read and respond to the wave instead of forcing maneuvers—leading to smoother, more stylish surfing with less effort. Tap play now and transform the way you surf by understanding what your body—and the wave—really want from you. Key Points Clayton discussed his approach to surfing, emphasizing the importance of leaning into turns and twisting the body to generate speed and power. Michael introduced the podcast and mentioned an upcoming surfboard giveaway from Clayton. Clayton shared his experience of learning to surf while managing diabetes from a young age. They discussed the difference between squatting and lunging during turns, and the importance of proper body positioning. Clayton broke down a slow-motion video of Kelly Slater surfing, analyzing his technique in detail. They talked about an upcoming surf coaching clinic with Clayton at Macaronis Resort in early 2018. Clayton explained the new Spinetek technology used in his surfboards, designed for superior strength and flex. Michael outlined the steps to enter the giveaway for a custom Spinetek surfboard from Clayton. https://surfmastery.com/podcast/claytonnienaber2 www.surfmastery.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.

What if the secret to surfing longer, stronger, and sharper lies not in your technique—but in your gut? Whether you're chasing flow state or simply trying to recover faster between sessions, your gut health could be the game-changer you've been overlooking. In this episode, Michael Frampton and health researcher Cale Brock dive deep into how your microbiome impacts your performance, energy, and mental clarity—essentials for any dedicated surfer. Discover how gut health influences your neurotransmitters and helps unlock flow state in the water. Learn why diversifying your diet—and your time in nature—could be the best performance enhancer available. Gain practical steps to start healing your gut and optimizing recovery and longevity in your surf lifestyle. Listen now to learn how a balanced gut can elevate your surfing, sharpen your mind, and help you stay stoked longer. Key Points Kale Brock discussed his upcoming documentary "The Gut Movie" and his recent trip to Namibia to study the microbiome of a tribe. The importance of gut microbiome diversity and its impact on human health, including immune system, metabolism, and brain development, was highlighted. Factors that can damage the gut microbiome, such as antibiotics, processed foods, pesticides, and chlorine in water, were discussed. Strategies to support a healthy gut microbiome were discussed, including eating whole foods, especially plant-based foods with prebiotic fibers, and potentially using probiotic supplements. The link between gut health and neurotransmitter production, and its potential impact on athletic performance and flow state, was explored. Kale Brock's book "The Gut Healing Protocol" and the upcoming release of "The Gut Movie" in November 2017 were mentioned. The gut-brain connection and its bidirectional nature, with stress impacting the gut microbiome, were discussed. The potential for future probiotic products tailored to specific conditions like anxiety and depression was mentioned. Kale Brock is an Award-nominated writer, producer and speaker. With a background in TV journalism, Kale has a passion for creative storytelling with a special interest in health & wellbeing. His long-awaited documentary, The Gut Movie, investigates the human microbiome in a scientific, quirky & fun journey in which he travels to Namibia to live with The San tribe. Kale's books, The Gut Healing Protocol and The Art Of Probiotic Nutrition, have generated international acclaim. The book: http://kalebrock.com.au/products/ghpbook/ 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.

Are you stuck on a plateau in your surfing? Find out why slowing down might be the fastest way to level up. Many surfers struggle to break through to the next level because they skip the fundamentals. Whether you're looking to smooth out your turns, learn wave reading, or unlock the secret to better shortboard performance, this episode with pro surfer turned coach Bud Freitas is packed with actionable insights to transform your surfing journey. Learn why starting on a longboard—or even a hybrid—can be a game-changer for your surfing fundamentals. Discover how to master wave reading and make better choices in the lineup. Get tips on finding the perfect board for your goals, whether you're new to longboarding or looking to sharpen your shortboard skills. Listen now to gain expert advice from Bud Freitas and take your surfing to the next level with proven techniques and insights! Key Points Bud Freitas shares his experience of learning to surf by watching and studying the surfing style of local surfers like Adam Rapogol, focusing on their rail game and smooth turns. Bud emphasizes the importance of starting with a longboard or hybrid board to learn the fundamentals of surfing and understanding how a surfboard works before transitioning to a shortboard. Bud suggests that one of the biggest challenges for surfers is skipping the fundamental steps of learning on a longboard or hybrid board and jumping straight to a shortboard, leading to a lack of proper technique. Bud recommends that surfers struggling with their shortboard surfing should go back to riding a longboard or hybrid board to regain their flow and fundamentals before transitioning back to the shortboard. Bud discusses the importance of wave selection and reading waves, emphasizing that it's a personal preference and takes time and experience to develop. Bud shares his transition from being a professional surfer to becoming a surf coach, driven by his passion for helping others improve their surfing skills. Bud highlights the challenges faced by adult learners and the satisfaction he derives from seeing their progress and stoke, similar to coaching kids. Bud emphasizes the need for surfers to learn how to truly surf, rather than just jumping around on a surfboard, and recommends starting with a longboard or hybrid board to develop proper technique. https://surfschoolsantacruz.com Show Notes 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.

What if you could transform your surfing by discovering your unique rhythm, conquering fear, and riding every wave with purpose and confidence? In this episode, Michael Frampton speaks with Gee Cormack, founder of Chix Surf School in Sydney, Australia. Gee shares her innovative approach to surf coaching, blending technical precision, emotional awareness, and the joy of soul surfing. From her time as a snowboarder with the Olympic development team to her experience shaping the future of women's surfing, Gee offers transformative insights that will inspire surfers of all levels to rethink their relationship with the ocean. Learn why emotional awareness is as important as technical skill in progressing as a surfer. Discover how understanding your environment and your body can lead to confident and joyful surfing. Gain practical strategies to improve your wave-reading ability, overcome anxiety, and enjoy surfing for life. Listen now to unlock a fresh perspective on surfing, build confidence in the water, and find your soul surfer within. Key Points Gee Cormack, the founder of Chicks Surf School, believes that the best surfers are those who find their rhythm with the ocean and surf with a smile on their face. Gee emphasizes the importance of understanding one's emotional state and why they surf, as it allows them to progress in their surfing. Gee teaches her students to read the ocean conditions, such as wave size, wind direction, and tide, to understand how it affects their surfing. Gee encourages her students to visualize themselves on the wave and commit to it, emphasizing that they are in control of the wave, not the other way around. Gee breaks down technical aspects of surfing, such as proper pop-up technique, weight distribution, and speed generation, to help her students improve. Gee believes that falling and making mistakes are essential for learning and progression in surfing. Gee works closely with her shaper, Marcus Grey, to design boards that complement her students' surfing abilities and goals. Gee's Chicks Surf School clinics focus on helping women understand why they surf and progress in their surfing through education and hands-on training. 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.

What if understanding the science behind waves could help you catch the best waves every time? In this episode, surf forecaster Ben Macartney reveals the secrets of predicting and scoring perfect surf conditions. From great circle paths to local bathymetry, every wave you ride is shaped by a complex set of factors. Whether you're planning your next surf trip or mastering your local break, Ben's expert insights will help you connect the dots between surf forecasts and real-world conditions. Learn how to analyze swell charts beyond the basics to uncover hidden gems at your favorite spots. Discover why understanding wind direction, period, and secondary swells is critical for predicting surf quality. Gain exclusive tips on using live wind feeds and buoy data to refine your surf planning. Hit play and unlock the forecasting tools and techniques you need to take your surfing to the next level. Key Points Waves are primarily generated by wind at the sea surface, not by tides or currents. The key factors for wave growth are the strength, length, and duration of the wind fetch. Storm systems with a combination of low and high pressure systems generate the strongest wind fetches for wave growth. The orientation and movement of the storm system relative to the coast affects the swell direction and size. Secondary swells and wind swells can interact with the primary swell, affecting wave quality. Local bathymetry and geography influence how swells refract and focus at specific surf breaks. Swells follow great circle paths due to the Earth's curvature, allowing remote swells to reach distant coastlines. Atmospheric pressure changes can affect sea levels, impacting surf conditions at reef breaks and slabs. Observing and understanding local swell patterns is crucial for predicting surf conditions accurately. https://surfmastery.com/podcast/ben-macartney-surf-forecaster 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.

What if surfing could teach you not just how to ride waves but how to master your mind and unlock a life of focus, presence, and resilience? In this episode, high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais reveals how surfing serves as the ultimate "laboratory" for mastering focus, awareness, and emotional resilience. Whether you're chasing bigger waves or a more balanced life, discover how the lessons learned in the lineup translate into personal growth and fulfillment. Learn why mindfulness is a powerful tool for improving both your surfing and your life. Discover the essential "fundamental decision" that elite athletes make to orient their lives toward mastery. Explore how music, breathing, and awareness can transform your pre-surf routine into a mindset game-changer. Listen to this episode to learn how to turn every surf session into a masterclass in mental focus, personal growth, and life mastery. Key Points Michael Gervais shared how he got into high performance sports psychology through his experience as a competitive surfer in his youth. They discussed the contrast between free surfing and competitive surfing, and how the fear of judgment can create barriers to performance. Gervais explained the difference between the mind and the brain, and how the mind can shape the brain and vice versa. They talked about the importance of being present and focused in the moment, and how mindfulness practices can help train the mind. Gervais emphasized the need to make a fundamental decision about how one wants to experience life and what to set life efforts towards. They discussed the surfer's relationship to surfing and the importance of not letting surfing control one's life, but rather being in control of when and how to surf. Gervais shared his perspective on the commonalities among elite athletes, including their ability to be fully present and their fundamental orientation towards mastery. They explored the role of music in pre-performance preparation and how it can support an ideal mindset. Gervais provided advice for listeners who want to get better at surfing, including investing in the quality of one's mind, making fundamental decisions, and enhancing the ability to be present through practices like mindfulness. https://findingmastery.net 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.

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. Learn how to mentally and physically prepare for big wave surfing and why preparation is key to overcoming fear. Discover Karl's approach to training, including breathwork and lessons learned from surfing legends like Shane Dorian and Greg Long. 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.

Have you ever wondered how to master surfing while overcoming plateaus and fear, or how to turn every wave into an opportunity for flow and progression? Surfing can feel elusive—many surfers plateau or rely on ambiguous advice like "feel the rhythm of the wave." In this episode, Ru Hill, founder of Surf Simply, breaks down the art and science of surfing mastery, offering actionable insights for surfers of all levels. Discover why breaking skills into clear, technical steps is the key to elevating your performance and finding flow on the waves. Learn how to overcome fear and intimidation in the critical parts of the wave with proven drills and mental techniques. Discover the importance of breaking down surfing into achievable, technical steps—like bottom turns to 12 o'clock and surfing to the targets—for sustained progression. Find out how intentional practice, video coaching, and the right mindset can help you unlock new levels of enjoyment and mastery in your surfing. Listen now to discover Ru Hill's groundbreaking approach to improving your surfing, no matter your level or experience. Key Points Ru explained how he got into surf coaching and developed a scientific approach to teaching surfing. Ru discussed his methodology of teaching functional stances and board control before standing up, rather than focusing solely on standing up. Ru emphasized the importance of not being precious with waves and practicing specific techniques repeatedly to improve. Ru explained the concept of 'surfing to the targets' and bottom turning to 12 o'clock to maximize speed and flow. Ru highlighted the importance of using specific language and avoiding ambiguous advice like 'feel the rhythm of the wave.' Ru discussed the different levels of surf coaching, from entry-level to competitive, and the gap in coaching for intermediate surfers. Ru shared his approach to helping surfers overcome fear and intimidation in the ocean through understanding wave mechanics and decision-making. Ru talked about the types of surfers who benefit most from Surf Simply's coaching, ranging from intermediate to advanced but not elite competitive surfers. http://surfsimply.com/ http://surfsimply.com/podcast/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8bEqBo6HUYBETZZS2AsMlg 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.