Backstroke is used for towing casualties. It has the advantage of easy breathing, as the mouth and nose are almost always over water. The disadvantage is the swimmer cannot see where he is heading. This swimming style is similar to an upside down breaststroke.

Lower Kick

Lifesavers use the breaststroke kick differently. The legs are somewhat lower, the knees are not pulled in as much because this would mean kicking the casualty. Instead, the lower legs do most of the kicking, in a rotation below the knee.

Hard Training

Once you've mastered this swimming stroke, you can increase the training level. Spread your arms sideways. This will slow you down as much as a casualty would. Wear a lifejacket and see what difference it makes. Add more and more clothes as you get stronger.


Practice with a lifejacket.