Rigging & animation · Beginner

Walk cycle

A looping animation of two steps that can repeat forever

What is a walk cycle?

A walk cycle is a short animation of a character taking two steps, left then right, that loops smoothly so it can repeat forever. It is a classic exercise for learning timing and weight, and games build movement from loops like it.

Think of it like this

Like a flipbook whose last page leads straight back into the first, so the character keeps strolling as long as you keep flipping.

Where it fits in a 3D project

  1. Create
  2. Surface
  3. Rig
  4. Animate
  5. Render
  6. Export

Animate: Making things move over time.

How a walk cycle works

  1. 01Set the contact poses, where each heel first touches the ground.
  2. 02Add the down poses, where the body sinks as weight lands.
  3. 03Add the passing poses, where one leg swings past the other.
  4. 04Add the up poses, then match the last frame to the first so it loops.

Walk cycle vs run cycle

PropertyWalk cycleRun cycle
Feet on the groundAt least one, alwaysBoth leave the ground
BodyUpright, with a gentle bobLeans forward, with a bigger bounce
TimingMore frames per stepFewer frames per step

The deciding difference is the airborne moment: a walk always keeps a foot down, while a run has a beat where both feet leave the ground.

Where a walk cycle is used

  • Game characters walking in any direction
  • Crowd and background characters in films
  • Practicing timing, weight and personality

Beginner tip

Animate the walk in place first, with the character staying on one spot, and move it forward later. The motion is easier to judge, and the loop is easier to line up.

Terms related to a walk cycle

Walk cycle FAQ

What are the walk cycle key poses?
Four poses per step: contact, when the heel strikes; down, when weight sinks; passing, when the free leg swings by; and up, when the body rises highest. Repeat them for the other leg and the cycle is complete.
How many frames is a walk cycle?
There is no fixed number. A relaxed walk often takes about a second for two steps, and a brisk walk less. Pick a timing that suits the character, and keep both steps the same length so the loop is even.
Why does my walk cycle look floaty?
Usually the body is not rising and falling enough, or the feet slide. Add a clear dip on the down pose, lock each foot in place while it touches the ground, and let the hips lead.

Updated October 29, 2026 · Browse all 3D terms