How Elite Surfers Dial in Mindset, Technique, & Boards w/ Kei Kobayashi
Train your paddling anywhere, anytime so you can catch more waves and have more fun with the Basis Paddle Trainer. Shipping globally now at https://www.surfbasis.com/
In this episode of the Basis Surf podcast, Kei Kobayashi shares what helped him level up his competitive surfing over the past year. He talks about how having a clear and positive mindset played a big role in his results. Kei also breaks down his technique—especially his backside bottom turn, where he grabs the rail to stay low and go vertical. We also talk about how small changes to his board made a big difference, and why training your paddling is so important for contests.
Sign up for our free surfboard guide for sizing down volume, video library and newsletter
Chapters
02:25 Kei’s origin story: A Japanese family and San Clemente roots
04:14 Early signs of ocean connection and childhood surfing
06:22 How San Clemente and local surfers shaped Kei’s style
08:44 Asking for help and learning from the best
10:49 Mental health: The underrated key to competitive success
13:47 Surfing as chess: Strategy, priority, and heat management
19:03 Sports psychology and his breakthrough at the Korea wave pool event
31:28 Physical training, early mornings, ice baths, and discipline
42:44 Paddle power and realizing the need for targeted training
47:18 Coaching with Tepe, drills, pressure tests, and positivity
50:24 Technical growth and surfing cues for power surfing
57:26 Surfboards, shorter length, tapered rails, and performance gains
1:12:25 Fins, the H4 experiment, and sticking with what works
1:22:30 Intentions before surfing, mini goals, and perspective
1:26:07 Reflecting on growth and what's next for Kei
Join our community of over 100k followers across IG, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube:
