
Why Most Surfers Plateau And How to Fix It w/ Adam Knox
From Basis Surf Podcast by Basis Surf
February 2, 2026 · 1h 2m · Episode 88
About this episode
Adam Knox discusses how adult surfers can overcome performance plateaus and improve their skills through effective coaching and mindset shifts.
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/ On this episode we have returning guest Adam Knox, a former pro surfer turned high-level coach who works closely with adult surfers to help them break through performance plateaus and surf with more power, control, and confidence. We talk about his coaching approach and how he emphasizes the importance of letting go of ego when surfing, and encourages surfers to embrace what he calls “dirty days” where progression comes from falling, experimenting, and getting uncomfortable. He explains how many adult learners skip the playful stage of surfing and end up lacking basic board control. Adam also talks about the value of paddle training, surf skates, and surfing mid-face to build real speed and connection with the wave. At the core of his approach is learning how to harness the wave’s energy through better mechanics, positioning, and mindset. Sign up for our free surfboard guide for sizing down volume, video library and newsletter Chapters02:17 Welcome Back Adam Knox02:36 The Accident: Dirt Bikes, Loss, and…
People in this episode
Host: Basis Surf
Guest: Adam Knox
Topics covered
- surf coaching
- performance plateaus
- paddle training
- surfing techniques
- adult learners
- mindset
Keywords
- surfing
- coaching
- performance
- paddle training
- adult surfers
- board control
- mindset
Sponsors
Basis Paddle Trainer
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Basis Surf, surfbasis.com
Products: Basis Paddle Trainer
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