Why Animators Need Walk Cycles on a Demo Reel

Character walks with "Monty" by Neil Whitman

Every animator should have at least one good walk cycle on their demo reel.  It might seem too basic, but a walk tells a recruiter a lot about your animation skills — timing, weight, character, and appeal — all in a few seconds of motion. 

You can have a number of walk cycles on your reel, as long as they show character and personality, and as long as you keep them short.  

Walks Show Mastery of the Fundamentals

"Zig Zag Walk" by Alex Williams on "The Thief & the Cobbler"

A character walk is animation 101 — body mechanics, overlapping action, spacing, rhythm, and balance all working together. 

If your walk feels solid and natural, it’s proof that you understand the core principles that underpin every kind of animation, from acting shots to complex action scenes.

Walks Reveal Character and Personality

A walk is also a performance. How a character walks tells us who they are — confident, shy, grumpy, or joyous.  A good demo reel isn't just about movement and mechanics; it's about character and personality. Recruiters love to see animators who can bring personality into something as simple as a stride across the screen.

Walks Are Quick, Clear, and Universal

Walk cycles are short, easy to review, and instantly readable — perfect for a recruiter scanning dozens of reels.  They show your animation range quickly, without the need for dialogue or story context. 

Simple, But Never Easy

Even seasoned animators know that a walk cycle is one of the hardest things to get just right. That’s why it’s a strong portfolio piece. A great walk says: “I understand movement, weight, and character.”

So don’t skip the basics. Include at least one strong, appealing walk on your demo reel (and ideally several) — it’s still one of the best ways to show what you can do.

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