Top 50 Coach James Jankowski Breaks Down Golf Swing Sequencing

Golfers are often told the swing is about hitting certain positions, but Top 50 coach James Jankowski says that's a myth. What actually separates good ball-strikers, he argues, is sequencing.

Why does sequencing matter more than positions?

Jankowski explains that positions are simply the byproduct of how the body and club move in order. The lower body starts the downswing transition, followed by the torso, then the arms, which pull the club down last. Each segment slows as the next one accelerates, passing energy down the chain and releasing the club through impact. That sequence, not a checklist of positions, is what produces a centered strike regardless of swing shape or style.

How can golfers train the right sequence?

Jankowski teaches a step drill to feel the downswing order. As the backswing starts, take a small step and shift slightly toward the trail side. Then, before the club reaches the top, step back toward the lead side to re-center the body and let the lower body begin the transition. From there, let the sequence unfold naturally, with the club accelerating last.

What's the most overlooked part of sequencing?

According to Jankowski, a good sequence isn't only about acceleration into the ball — every segment also has to decelerate before impact. He recommends making several continuous swings in a row, or hitting a line of balls without resetting between shots. After each strike, the body has to slow down before impact, and the club has to slow down after it, enough to regain balance before the next swing. Jankowski says that builds a better feel for the impact sequence instead of simply chasing clubhead speed into the finish.