Are you unknowingly training yourself into injury and underperformance every time you paddle out?

This episode explores how Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)—a system based on infant motor development—is transforming the way pro surfers train, recover, and perform. With elite surf athletes like Kelly Slater and teams in the World Surf League using DNS, it’s time to understand why it matters to your surfing. Dr. Michael Rintala, one of the world’s top DNS instructors, breaks it all down.

• Discover how DNS builds rock-solid core stability without a single crunch or plank

• Learn why poor breathing mechanics are the root of back pain, bad pop-ups & slow paddling

• Understand the link between elite surfing technique and the first two years of human life

Hit play and unlock the system used by the world’s best surfers to move better, last longer, and surf harder—with less wear and tear.

Key Points

• Michael Rintala, a top-level DNS instructor, discusses his background as a chiropractor specializing in sports medicine and rehabilitation, and his work with the World Surf League and Prague School of Rehabilitation.

• DNS (Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization) is explained as a system based on developmental kinesiology, focusing on the neurophysiological aspects of motor development after birth, and its application in enhancing athletic performance and rehabilitation.

• Michael shares his personal experience with DNS, highlighting its effectiveness in resolving chronic pain and improving overall movement efficiency, which inspired him to integrate it into his training practices.

• The importance of the diaphragm's function in the deep stabilizing system is emphasized, noting its role in respiration, stabilization, and coordination, which significantly impacts athletic performance and injury prevention.

• The concept of functional capacity and the functional gap is introduced, explaining how DNS helps athletes maintain optimal movement quality and avoid compensatory patterns that lead to injuries.

• The application of DNS in coaching is discussed, highlighting how improved stabilization and joint centration can enhance technique and performance across various sports.

• Common injuries among elite surfers, such as low back, neck, shoulder, knee, and ankle issues, are addressed, emphasizing the need for optimal stabilization to prevent both repetitive and traumatic injuries.

• Michael Rintala mentions upcoming courses integrating Kinesio tape with DNS, and DNS-specific courses in various locations, including Japan, Hawaii, and Australia.

https://www.rintalachiro.com/

https://www.rehabps.com/REHABILITATION/Home.html

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.