what am i doing wrong this time?

[TampaBrian]

Hey everyone, quick question.
When I initially started freediving almost a year ago, after 6 or so weeks of training, I was at a 4:00 PB and could hit 3:30 consistantly. I stopped diving/practicing for about 6 months. When I started again 2 months ago, I was at 2:30 on my first attempt and at 3:00 in a week. Its been a 9 weeks now and I can't break 3:00. I'm sure its not my body, diet or training that has changed. Could it be stress levels? Mental awareness? Something else? I'd love to hear your thoughts on this. It feels like i've taken a step backwards.
-brian

[alexrom1207]

Just a guess as I'm no expert on this....but if you are striving hard to get to 4min like you used to that apprehension may be working against your. I would suggest doing statics for a week or so without timing yourself and just trying to get comfortable with it. Don't even think about how long it is just work on relaxation. After a week or so time yourself again. This is just a suggestion and is not based on any personal experience, probably just information gleaned from reading this site....but maybe it will help.
good luck
alex

[Jee]

When tired, you could do less in time. I.e. when you don't sleep enough. Illness also is bad for the static time.

[OceanObsessed]

Are you eating at a different time now? I have to freedive or do statics on an empty stomach. Having food in my stomach will cut my breathold down considerably.