Backstroke is similar to the front crawl/freestyle, except that you float on your back, rather than propelling your front through the water first. You will begin this stroke by floating in the water with your lungs on the surface, but the rest of your body beneath the water. You must keep yourself horizontal as you move through the water, which you will achieve through your leg kicks. Your stroke will involve pulling the water beneath you, which will propel your body through the water.