u/Orthodoxconvert919

I (27F) recently failed my lifeguard recertification due to the brick test. First attempt I did not make it far enough, and on my second attempt I was at 02:25 for the full length and it must be done in under 01:45. Tips I have received are:

• Kick downward
• Have the brick high up on my chest
• Kick hard and fast
• Practice (been doing)
• Swim with fins on to practice the feeling (not on the test, of course)

Just feeling frustrated because I have been a lifeguard for four years now, and passed the brick test twice before. So I am a bit confused on how I have failed. While I haven't been training much, I passed other certifications to work at a lake (450 yard swim in under ten minutes and lake rescues, including swimming out to my victim) with little-no preparation either.

Advice?