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.