To animate a humanoid 3D model, you first rig it with a virtual skeleton (armature) to control joints, then use keyframing or motion capture to create sequential poses over time.
Rigging attaches the model’s mesh to bones (e.g., for limbs, spine, face) so movements like bending an elbow or smiling shape the mesh correctly. Keyframing involves setting key poses at specific times (e.g., a foot lift) and letting software interpolate the motion between them. Motion capture transfers real human movement (from sensors or cameras) to the model for lifelike motions.
For beginners, use free tools like Blender—its Rigify add-on simplifies rigging—and practice small animations (walking, jumping) before trying motion capture.