How to Swim the Inverted Breaststroke

The breaststroke is one of the most basic swimming strokes learned early in swimming lessons. The inverted breaststroke uses similar form; however, it is performed while floating on your back. If you would like to add a new stroke to your swimming repertoire, a few tips can get you started on the inverted breaststroke.

Instructions

    • 1

      Begin by positioning your body at the edge of the pool, holding the sides with both hands and pressing your feet against the wall. Gently push off to give yourself momentum to swim the inverted backstroke.

    • 2

      Keep your head lifted as you float on the water, keeping your face high enough to breathe; however, remember that the lower you place your head in the water the faster you will be able to swim the backstroke.

    • 3

      Lift your hands up overhead as you push off, entering the water above your head. Your hands and arms should move together in a synchronized fashion throughout the entire movement. When your hands hit the water above your head, bring then down to your sides to keep your momentum. Lift them once again as you reach your sides, keeping your elbows straight.

    • 4

      Use a breaststroke kick to swim the inverted backstroke. To perform and breaststroke kick, keep your legs as shallow as possible. Bring your knees out to the sides, bending slightly and push away as you straighten your legs and bring them together.

    • 5

      Complete the inverted backstroke by lifting your knees into your kick at the same time that you lift your arms. Bring your legs together as you draw your arms down. Allow yourself to glide for a second and then repeat the stroke.