Anticipation - Initial Research

Anticipation within animation refers to a small movement that prepares for the main action that is about to follow. For example, bending the knees slightly before a jump. Anticipation is used for a variety of reasons, one being that it allows the viewer to understand rapid movement better, such as a character preparing to run and then dashing off screen. This method is also used to help portray weight or age within the character, a heavy person may place their hands on their knees before sitting up from a chair, whereas a lighter person may spring up without much anticipation of movement.

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Below is student sequence found on youtube, illustrating some anticipation within animation.