Did you know that how you first learn to surf can determine your entire future in the sport — including how fast you improve and how much fun you have?

In this deep and reflective episode, surf coach George Stoy shares the philosophy and methods behind building not just better surfers, but more resilient, self-aware, and fulfilled people through the craft of wave riding. Drawing from decades of experience — and insights from skiing, psychology, and elite coaching — George breaks down why most surf instruction falls short, and what true progression actually looks like.

• Discover why early bad habits create “unlearning traps” and how to avoid them from day one.

• Learn how to build a “performance strand” that links your current surf skill to future mastery.

• Get insight into how mindset, equipment, and wave-reading all connect — and how to train them holistically.

Hit play now to rethink your surfing progression from the ground up — and learn how to turn every session into a step toward lasting surf confidence and flow

Key Points

• Initial skill development in surfing has a direct relation to the final refined mastery of the skill.

• George Stoy emphasizes the importance of understanding a surfer's motive for coaching to facilitate therapeutic benefits.

• Common mistakes among recreational surfers include inappropriate equipment and a rigid attitude towards it, which George aims to correct through open and adaptable coaching.

• George employs a team of 8 to 10 surf coaches, highlighting the shift towards a more structured and methodological approach to surf coaching.

• George critiques the two-day surf coaching qualification, advocating for more comprehensive training and mentoring to elevate the standards of surf coaching.

• The concept of 'performance strands' in surf coaching, introduced by George, aims to ensure that initial skill development is aligned with the mastery of advanced skills.

• George Stoy reflects on the emotional and physical challenges of learning to surf, particularly in confronting fears and adapting to different surfing conditions, such as his first trip to Hawaii.

• George discusses the impact of the surge in recreational surfing on etiquette and the need for surfers to be aware of their surroundings and the potential risks associated with crowded waters.

• The evolving attitude towards surf coaching, with more women engaging in coaching sessions compared to men, and the increasing professionalization of surf coaching as a viable career.

• George encourages surfers to explore different feelings and experiences on waves, emphasizing the importance of the emotional and sensory aspects of surfing over strict adherence to technique.

https://www.georgessurfschool.com

@georgessurfschool

Online Surf Coaching

https://ombe.co/12-week-program-asp-sm/

https://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.