I am having a hard time get past my static record of 3 minutes and I am trying time tables to increase my breath hold. I just wanted to know if your urge to breathe is even a factor anymore for those of you that have been diving a long time or if you have just learned to push past it. I have only been free diving about a month and I'm having a tough time pushing myself. Does the urge to breath go down after contractions?- the only time I have had a contraction was after I completely exhaled and held my breath for about 45 seconds.- Is this a good method to get used to the urge to breathe? any tips or techniques would be appreciated.