movement class how to prepare body for movement

Question 1

why do we prepare and actor for movement ?

Answer 1

this is crucial for actors, especially those just starting out

reasons why :

1. preventing injuries

warms-up and stretching help to increase blood flow to muscles, making them more flexible and less prone to injuries. this is especially important for actors. who may need to perform physically demanding scenes.

2. enhancing performance

A well- prepared body can move more freely and expressively. This allows actors to fully embody their characters and deliver more convincing performances.

3. building physical awareness

regular movement exercises help actors become more aware of their bodies. this awareness is essential for understanding how to use physicality to convey emotions and intentions on stage or screen.

4. improving stamina

Acting can be physically exhausting. preparing the body helps build the stamina needed to perform consistently, whether it’s for a single take or multiple performances in a row.

5. reducing stress

physical preparation can also help reduce stress and anxiety. Activities like yoga or deep breathing exercises can calm the mind, making it easier to focus and stay present during performances.

6. creating a routine

Establishing a regular warm-up routine can help actors get into the right mindset for rehearsals and performances. it signals the body and mind that it’s time to switch to “performance mode”

7. developing discipline

consistent physical preparation fosters discipline, which is a valuable trait for any actor. it shows commitment to the craft and helps build a professional work ethic.

Question 2

what are the movement skills ?

Answer 2

Elevation

Gesture

Travelling

Rotation

Transference

stillness

Question 3

what is movement ?

Answer 3

Movement is the act, process or result of changing position.​

Question 4

how does movement work ?

Answer 4

Movement happens when the angle of joint(s) changes through muscle tension and relaxation.​

Question 5

what is a joint ?

Answer 5

A joint is where two bones meet each other.​

Movement is only possible at a joint.​

Question 6

what is muscle tension ?

Answer 6

Muscle tension is when the muscle contracts to shorten.​

It can be divided into different types; Isotonic and Isometric:​

Isotonic contractions can be Concentric and Eccentric Concentric / Eccentric contraction (youtube.com) (accessed 25/9/24)​

During a concentric contraction, the muscle (prime mover or agonist muscle) is shortening during the contraction ​

During an eccentric contraction, the muscle (prime mover or agonist muscle) is lengthening during the contraction while resisting gravity or some other external force​

An isometric contraction is when an opposing pair of muscles (one known as the agonist and the other as the antagonist) contract together with the same intensity: there is no movement during an isometric contraction Isotonic, Isometric, Eccentric and Concentric Muscle Contractions (youtube.com) (accessed 25/9/25)​

Tension in exercise helps to build and strengthen the muscles​

Question 7

what is muscle relaxation ?

Answer 7

Muscle relaxation is the opposite of muscle tension: the muscle is not contracting.​

The muscle (antagonist) is lengthened when the agonist muscle is contracting to provide a movement at the joint; this allows the joints/articulations a larger range of movement during exercise, which is important in the prevention of injury.​

Question 8

why is it important to prepare the body before a physical session ?

Answer 8

To increase the heart rate and body temperature.​

To avoid muscular injuries.​

To increase the range of movement of articulation/joint.​

Question 9

how can you prepare your body for a physical session ?

Answer 9

Warm up​

Cardiovascular exercises​

Mobilisation of joints​

Conditioning/strengthening exercises​

Stretching exercises​

Breathing control​

Question 10

what do cardiovascular exercises do for the body ?

Answer 10

To increase heart rate and body temperature.​

To allow better blood circulation to the muscles.​

Blood transports oxygen to muscles which use it as energy for contraction.

Question 11

what does mobilisation of the joints do for the body ?

Answer 11

To “oil” the joint to allow wider movement of the joint.​

To increase range of movement.​

To acknowledge own limitations.​

Question 12

what do conditioning exercises do for the body ?

Answer 12

To prepare the muscles to the workload of the upcoming session by progressively increasing the intensity.​

To acknowledge own limitations and restrictions which can be developed later on with a conditioning program.​

Core work to allow a better control of breathing and use of voice.​

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Question 13

what does stretching exercises do for the body ?

Answer 13

To lengthen the muscles to allow further range of movement.​

To acknowledge own limitations and restrictions which can be developed later on with a conditioning program.​

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Question 14

what does breathing control do for the body ?

Answer 14

To acknowledge the breathing technique throughout movements to optimise the use of oxygen.​

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Question 15

what is the benefits of good nutrition ?

Answer 15

• increase are energy stores
  -boost are immune system
  -help us to train are bodies and minds more efficiently
  -prevent injury and fatigue
• enhance recovery period from injury