Episode
How Elite Surfers Dial in Mindset, Technique, & Boards w/ Kei Kobayashi
- Podcast
- Basis Surf Podcast
- Published
- Feb 9, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 5169
- Processing state
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Summary
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 Chapters02:25 Kei’s origin story: A Japanese family and San Clemente roots04:14 Early signs of ocean connection and childhood surfing06:22 How San Clemente and local surfers shaped Kei’s style08:44 Asking for help and learning from the best10:49 Mental health: The underrated key to competitive success13:47 Surfing as chess: Strategy, priority, and heat management19:03 Sports psychology and his breakthrough at the Korea wave pool event31:28 Physical training, early mornings, ice baths, and discipline42:44 Paddle power and realizing the need for targeted training47:18 Coaching with Tepe, drills, pressure tests, and positivity50:24 Technical growth and surfing cues for power surfing57:26 Surfboards, shorter length, tapered rails, and performance gains1:12:25 Fins, the H4 experiment, and sticking with what works1:22:30 Intentions before surfing, mini goals, and perspective1:26:07 Reflecting on growth and what's next for Kei Subscribe for more interviews with pro surfers, coaches, shapers, and everyday surfers like Tom Carroll, Zeke Lau, Victor Berna…