solves getting worse

[cuber314159]

recently my 4x4x4 average went up from about 58 to 1:03 and 3x3x3 from about 13.7 to 14.3
why are they increasing and what can I do to prevent this (4x4x4 does not really matter because after my solves got bad I decided to learn yau in the hope that eventually it will be faster)

 

[Zerksies]

What kinda cube are you using? Is it properly set up? does it need relubing?

 

[shadowslice e]

That seems like perfectly normal variation tbh. You probably just had a bad day.

 

[pglewis]

There are many things that can slow you so you're probably the only one who can gauge the reason(s). Maybe record some solves and watch the playback with a critical eye. If you're currently learning new things forget about it, slower before faster is always the rule in that case.

 

[Alex B71]

Consciously focus on looking ahead and being as fluent as possible. That usually fixes it for me... usually.

 

[greentgoatgal]

Take a break from timing your solves, and don't think about it too much.

 

[cuber314159]

What kinda cube are you using? Is it properly set up? does it need relubing?

Gts2, and it probably does but I feel that Maru never seems to have as big an effect as it used to apart from when it just goes in and it doesn't last very long, is there a point where a cube goes beyond well broken in?

 

[genericcuber666]

Probably look ahead

 

[cubing master]

If maru does not have as big of an affect as it used to, then you should probably clean out the puzzle.

 

[Competition Cuber]

Maybe try getting a new cube and lubricants, or just take a break. It always helps to take a break every once in a while

 

[RhysC]

Time increases like these are common and are certainly not permanent. Here's a few tips:

1) Don't set your bar too high. Instead of being disappointed with 14.3 second solves, allow that to be the desired time and be happy with faster 13.7 solves.
2) Take a break. This is surprisingly effective considering many of us practice a fair bit too much. Taking a break for a few days can help give you the enthusiasm you need when coming back to get some great times.
3) Change your practice. If you seriously feel like your times are increasing, perhaps it's because you are actively practicing bad habits. Slow your solves, be efficient, perhaps turn off the timer. Just remember its as much about learning new things and being efficient as it is about doing solve after solve.

 

[Zerksies]

Gts2, and it probably does but I feel that Maru never seems to have as big an effect as it used to apart from when it just goes in and it doesn't last very long, is there a point where a cube goes beyond well broken in?

It's a pretty smooth cube from the factory. I would try and take the thing apart clean a relube it. I would especially lube the core. I 've found it's a big improvement on that cube

 

[cuber314159]

Can I lube cores with Maru or silicone spray, all the cubicle lubes are horribly overpriced in the UK

 

[xyzzy]

Can I lube cores with Maru or silicone spray, all the cubicle lubes are horribly overpriced in the UK

Maru contains water and will cause the core to rust over time. Silicone spray is probably safe.

(But also you don't need to lube the core unless you hear spring noise and are annoyed by that.)

 

[Zerksies]

I would try some RC diff Lube maybe a Traxxas 50k or Lighter