Creating Run Cycles in 3ds Max
In this set of 3ds Max tutorials we will learn how to use 3ds Max's amazing animation tools to create a convincing run cycle. Software required: Autodesk 3ds Max 2013.
What you'll learn
In this set of 3ds Max tutorials we will learn how to use 3ds Max's amazing animation tools to create a convincing run cycle. We'll start by taking a look at our rig and figuring out an axis order that would be best for our needs. We'll then jump right in and start blocking in our run; adding extremes and breakdowns. Once this step is finished, we'll begin polishing the animation, which includes refining arcs, achieving weight and balance, as well as solidifying each pose. We'll also learn how to mirror animation to work faster, how to translate the run forward, as well as how to create a simplified IK/FK tool. In the end, you'll not only learn how to animate a run cycle, but, more importantly, you'll learn techniques that can be used to improve the quality of your animations. Software required: Autodesk 3ds Max 2013.
Table of contents
- A Look at the Rig 10m
- Working with Reference and Creating the Initial Pose 11m
- Mirroring Poses 11m
- Posing the Down Position 7m
- Cycling the Animation 3m
- Correcting the Movements of the Legs 12m
- Adding Weight to the Upper Body 8m
- Finishing the Legs 17m
- Finishing the Movements of the Cog During the Run 6m
- Animating the Upper Torso 8m
- Completing the Neck and Head 6m
- Tweaking the Swinging Actions of the Upper Arms 10m
- Adding Follow-through to the Forearms and Wrists 6m
- Wrapping up the Run Cycle 5m
- Translating the Run Forward 4m
About the author
Delano works avidly as an animation author at Pluralsight. Starting his career at animation studios like Shilo, Delano has developed a strong passion for his talents. His animation and rigging background help him teach and create some of the most-watched training on Pluralsight. A few of his favorite projects that he has contributed to include: Character Interaction in Maya and in Softimage, Rigging the Human Face in Maya, Rigging Sea Creatures in Maya, and Rigging and Animating Transforming... more