I start out breathing every three strokes with a good kick to get me away from the pack. After a while I switch to every other stroke. I keep a good steady kick. If kicking is really that bad start adding some kick into your workout. My coach has us doing tons of kick. Our most common kick workout is 5x100 kick on 2:00. 2:00 might be a little to fast for you but try to make it so that when you finish you have very little rest, and you are pretty much sprinting on the kick. The best way to start going faster is to make sure you are always looking straight down. This helps keep your legs straight and it makes you more hydrodynamic. Also, remember that all swimming should be done on your side, not on your stomach. Just practice rolling to each side as mentioned above.