Movement is everywhere, and most of the time we are perceiving it either directly or subliminally. Consequently, we are usually in one of two roles as observers. We may be watching an event in which we are participating, such as conversing with a friend or teaching a dance class. Or we may be watching an event in which we are spectators, such as a sporting event or a video recording of a concert.
When I make a Movement Pattern Analysis profile, I am conducting a face-to-face interview while simultaneously observing and recording the client’s movements. As a participant observer, keeping the interview going competes with my capacity to give undivided attention to movement. On the other hand, interacting with the client in person gives me a “feel” for their movement and stimulates kinesthetic empathy.
In addition, I usually videotape the interview. This gives me a chance to concentrate on the movement as a spectator observer. I can really concentrate and go for details that may have escaped my awareness during the live interview.
Each role has its benefits and drawbacks, and this is something to consider when structuring the observation.