At the A1 level, you can think of '体を動かす' (karada o ugokasu) as a simple way to say 'move your body.' 'Karada' means body, and 'ugokasu' means to move something. You might use this when talking about simple actions. For example, if you are in a Japanese class and the teacher says '体を動かしましょう' (Let's move our bodies), they want you to stand up or stretch. It is a very useful phrase because it combines a basic noun (body) with a basic verb (move). At this level, don't worry about the complex nuances; just remember it as the opposite of 'sitting still.' You can use it to tell a friend you want to be active: '体を動かしたいです' (I want to move my body). This is a great way to start expressing physical needs in Japanese.
At the A2 level, you start to see '体を動かす' as a more natural alternative to the word 'exercise' (運動 - undou). While 'undou' sounds like a formal workout, '体を動かす' is what people say in daily life. You might use it to describe your hobbies or daily routine. For example, '休みの日は、外で体を動かすのが好きです' (On my days off, I like moving my body outside). You also begin to learn the difference between 'ugokasu' (transitive - you move it) and 'ugoku' (intransitive - it moves). '体を動かす' is something you do intentionally. This phrase is very common in health-related conversations, which is a key topic at the A2 level. You can use it to give simple advice to friends who look tired or have been studying too long.
At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance that '体を動かす' often implies 'refreshment' or 'health maintenance' rather than just literal movement. It is frequently used in the context of '気分転換' (kibun tenkan - a change of pace/mood). For instance, 'ストレスがたまった時は、体を動かすのが一番だ' (When stress builds up, moving your body is the best thing). You will also encounter this phrase in more complex grammatical structures, such as using it as a noun phrase: '体を動かすことは健康にいい' (Moving your body is good for health). At this level, you can distinguish between formal exercise and the general lifestyle habit of being active. You'll hear it in work settings when people take breaks or in casual conversations about weekend plans.
At the B2 level, you can use '体を動かす' to discuss broader topics like public health, work-life balance, and physical therapy. You understand that this phrase is often preferred in professional but non-clinical settings, such as a company wellness newsletter or a sports coach's pep talk. You can use it in more sophisticated sentences: 'デスクワーク中心の生活では、意識的に体を動かす機会を作ることが不可欠だ' (In a life centered on desk work, it is essential to consciously create opportunities to move one's body). You also recognize its use in metaphorical or semi-idiomatic ways, such as '体を動かして働く' (to work using one's body/manual labor) as opposed to '頭を使って働く' (to work using one's head/intellectual labor). Your mastery of the transitive 'ugokasu' allows you to use it in causative or passive forms if the context requires.
At the C1 level, you appreciate the subtle social registers of '体を動かす.' You notice how it is used to soften the tone of advice. Instead of a harsh 'You need to exercise,' a Japanese speaker might say '適度に体を動かしたほうがいいかもしれませんね' (It might be good to move your body moderately). You can also use the phrase in discussions about the mind-body connection (心身の相関). For example, you might discuss how '体を動かす' acts as a catalyst for cognitive function or emotional stability. You are comfortable using it in written essays or formal presentations about the sedentary nature of modern society. You also understand its relationship to other physical verbs like 'ほぐす' (to loosen up) or '活性化する' (to activate), and you can choose '体を動かす' when you want to sound grounded and practical.
At the C2 level, '体を動かす' is a tool for nuanced expression in any context, from literary analysis to medical discourse. You understand its historical and cultural weight—how the concept of physical movement is tied to Japanese ideas of 'do' (the way) and 'kata' (form). You can analyze texts where '体を動かす' might be used to describe a character's return to health or their connection to nature. You use the phrase with perfect naturalness, knowing exactly when to use the more clinical '身体活動' (physical activity) versus the more human '体を動かす.' Whether you are debating the merits of traditional martial arts or discussing the ergonomics of a new workspace, you use this phrase to bridge the gap between abstract concepts and the physical reality of human existence.

体を動かす en 30 secondes

  • 体を動かす means 'to move one's body,' commonly used for general exercise or being physically active in daily life.
  • It is a transitive phrase using the particle 'o,' implying an intentional action by the person to stay healthy.
  • Compared to the formal 'undou suru,' this phrase sounds more natural and encompasses light activities like walking or stretching.
  • It is frequently heard in health advice, office settings, and conversations about lifestyle habits or stress relief.

The Japanese phrase 体を動かす (karada o ugokasu) is a foundational expression that literally translates to "to move the body." However, its usage in Japanese culture and daily conversation extends far beyond a simple mechanical description of physical motion. At its core, it represents the act of being physically active, engaging in exercise, or simply breaking away from a sedentary state to stimulate the muscles and joints.

Literal Meaning
To physically displace or manipulate one's own body parts. This can refer to a specific action, like moving an arm after an injury, or the general act of movement.
Idiomatic Meaning
To engage in light exercise, sports, or physical labor. It is often used when the speaker wants to emphasize the health benefits or the feeling of refreshment that comes from activity.
Contextual Nuance
Unlike the more formal word 運動する (undou suru - to exercise), 体を動かす feels more natural, holistic, and less like a chore. It encompasses everything from a morning walk to heavy lifting at a construction site.

「デスクワークばかりなので、たまには体を動かしたほうがいいですよ。」
(Since you only do desk work, it's better to move your body once in a while.)

Common advice in a professional setting

PHYSICAL THERAPY

"Slowly move your body."

SPORTS ADVICE

"Warm up by moving your body."

When you use this phrase, you are focusing on the *action* of movement itself. It is a transitive construction (を動かす), implying that the person is the agent controlling their own physical form. This distinguishes it from the intransitive 体が動く (karada ga ugoku), which would mean the body moves on its own or is capable of movement.

Using 体を動かす correctly requires an understanding of Japanese verb conjugation and the transitive/intransitive distinction. Since 動かす (ugokasu) is a transitive verb, it always takes an object—in this case, 'the body' (体).

Grammatical Structure

The basic pattern is: [Subject] + は/が + 体を動かす. Depending on the tense and politeness level, the verb changes:

  • Dictionary Form: 体を動かす (To move the body)
  • Polite Form: 体を動かします (I move the body)
  • Te-form (Request/Continuous): 体を動かして (Please move... / Moving...)
  • Potential Form: 体を動かせる (Can move the body)

Example of Intention:

「週末は公園で体を動かそうと思っています。」
(I'm thinking of moving my body/exercising at the park this weekend.)

Common Contexts

This phrase is versatile and appears in several specific scenarios:

  1. Health and Wellness: Doctors often tell patients to "move their bodies" to recover from illness or prevent lifestyle diseases.
  2. Mental Health: It is frequently suggested as a remedy for stress or feeling "stuck" (気分転換 - kibun tenkan).
  3. Instructional: In yoga, dance, or sports classes, instructors use it to guide students through motions.

You will encounter 体を動かす in a wide variety of settings in Japan, from the workplace to the clinic to social gatherings. It is a very common phrase because Japanese culture places a high value on maintaining physical health through consistent, moderate activity.

1. In the Office

In Japan's high-pressure work environment, health management (健康管理) is a hot topic. You might hear a colleague say:

「ずっと座りっぱなしだから、少し体を動かしてきます。」
(I've been sitting the whole time, so I'm going to go move my body a bit.)

2. At the Doctor's Office

Medical professionals use this phrase to give gentle advice. Instead of demanding you "join a gym," they might say:

「毎日少しずつでいいので、体を動かす習慣をつけましょう。」
(It's fine to start small, but let's make a habit of moving your body every day.)

3. Media and Health Programs

On morning TV shows (wide shows), there are often segments dedicated to simple exercises for seniors or busy parents. The hosts will encourage viewers to "move their bodies together" (一緒に体を動かしましょう).

Typical Media Headline:

「家の中でもできる!楽しく体を動かす5つの方法」
(You can do it at home! 5 ways to have fun moving your body.)

While the phrase is simple, learners often make subtle errors in nuance or grammar when trying to express the idea of physical activity.

Mistake 1: Overusing 運動する (Undou suru)
Learners often use 運動する for everything. While correct, it sounds more like "working out" or "formal exercise." If you just went for a walk or played with your kids, 体を動かす is much more natural.
Mistake 2: Particle Confusion
Using 体に動かす (Ni) or 体が動かす (Ga) is grammatically incorrect. Since you are moving the body as an object, を (o) is mandatory.
Mistake 3: Confusing with 'Move House'
Do not use 動かす when you mean moving to a new apartment. That is 引っ越す (hikkosu). 体を動かす is strictly about physical anatomy.

Japanese has several ways to describe physical activity. Choosing the right one depends on the intensity and the setting.

運動する (Undou suru)

Formal "Exercise." Used for gym sessions, sports, or prescribed physical activity.

"I exercise for 30 minutes every morning."

スポーツをする (Supootsu o suru)

Playing sports. Implies rules, competition, or specific games like soccer or tennis.

"I play sports on weekends."

体操する (Taiso suru)

Calisthenics or gymnastics. Often refers to structured stretching or rhythmic movements.

"Let's do some morning stretches."

鍛える (Kitaeru)

To train or forge. Used for serious muscle building or intense athletic training.

"I'm training my abs."

While 体を動かす is the most general and inclusive, these other terms provide specificity when the activity is more structured or goal-oriented.

How Formal Is It?

Niveau de difficulté

Grammaire à connaître

Transitive/Intransitive verb pairs (動かす/動く)

~koto/no for nominalization (体を動かすこと)

~you ni suru (making an effort to move)

~tari ~tari (doing things like moving your body...)

~nagara (moving your body while doing something else)

Exemples par niveau

1

いっしょに体を動かしましょう。

Let's move our bodies together.

Uses the ~mashou (let's) form.

2

毎日、体を動かします。

I move my body every day.

Simple present polite form.

3

体を動かすのは楽しいです。

Moving my body is fun.

Uses 'no wa' to turn the phrase into a noun.

4

外で体を動かしてください。

Please move your body outside.

Uses ~te kudasai for a polite request.

5

少し体を動かしたいです。

I want to move my body a little.

Uses ~tai for desire.

6

ここで体を動かさないでください。

Please don't move your body here.

Negative request form.

7

父は毎日体を動かします。

My father moves his body every day.

Subject-object-verb structure.

8

体を動かすことが好きですか?

Do you like moving your body?

Question form with 'koto ga suki'.

1

健康のために、毎日体を動かしています。

I am moving my body every day for my health.

Uses ~te iru for continuous habit.

2

体を動かした後は、気持ちがいいです。

After moving my body, I feel good.

Uses ~ta ato de (after doing).

3

仕事の合間に体を動かすようにしています。

I try to move my body during work breaks.

Uses ~you ni shite iru (making an effort to).

4

週末は公園で体を動かしましょうか。

Shall we move our bodies in the park this weekend?

Uses ~mashou ka (shall we).

5

あまり体を動かさないと、太ってしまいますよ。

If you don't move your body much, you'll gain weight.

Uses ~to (if) conditional.

6

子供たちは外で元気に体を動かしています。

The children are energetically moving their bodies outside.

Adverb 'genki ni' modifying the action.

7

家の中でも、工夫すれば体を動かせます。

Even inside the house, you can move your body if you're creative.

Potential form 'ugokaseru'.

8

体を動かす習慣をつけたいです。

I want to start a habit of moving my body.

Noun + o tsukeru (to form a habit).

1

ストレス解消には、体を動かすのが一番効果的だ。

Moving your body is the most effective way to relieve stress.

B1 level sentence structure with 'no ga ichiban'.

2

最近、忙しくて体を動かす暇が全然ありません。

Lately, I've been so busy I have no time at all to move my body.

Noun 'hima' (time/leisure) modified by the phrase.

3

医者に「もっと体を動かしなさい」と言われました。

I was told by the doctor, 'Move your body more.'

Imperative form 'nasai' in a quote.

4

体を動かすことで、脳が活性化されると言われています。

It is said that by moving the body, the brain is activated.

Passive voice 'kasseika sareru'.

5

彼は体を動かす仕事に就きたいと考えている。

He is thinking about getting a job where he moves his body.

Relative clause modifying 'shigoto'.

6

冬の間は寒くて、なかなか体を動かす気になれません。

During winter it's cold, so I just can't get into the mood to move my body.

Phrase 'ki ni narenai' (can't get into the mood).

7

ダンスは、楽しみながら体を動かせる素晴らしい方法です。

Dancing is a wonderful way to move your body while having fun.

Uses ~nagara (while doing).

8

無理のない範囲で、毎日体を動かすことが大切です。

It is important to move your body every day within a reasonable range.

Formal B1 advice structure.

1

現代人は意識的に体を動かさないと、運動不足になりがちだ。

Modern people tend to lack exercise unless they consciously move their bodies.

Uses ~gachi (tendency to).

2

怪我のリハビリとして、少しずつ体を動かし始めた。

As rehabilitation for the injury, I started moving my body little by little.

Uses ~hajimeru (start doing).

3

体を動かすことは、メンタルヘルスの維持に不可欠な要素である。

Moving the body is an essential element for maintaining mental health.

Formal 'dearu' ending.

4

彼は一日中体を動かして働く、タフな男だ。

He is a tough man who works moving his body all day long.

Te-form used to describe the manner of working.

5

高齢者が無理なく体を動かせるようなプログラムを開発した。

We developed a program so that the elderly can move their bodies without strain.

Uses ~you na (such that) for purpose.

6

スポーツ選手にとって、効率よく体を動かす技術は非常に重要だ。

For athletes, the technique of moving the body efficiently is extremely important.

Adverb 'kouritsu yoku' (efficiently).

7

長時間のフライトの後は、軽く体を動かして血行を良くすべきだ。

After a long flight, you should move your body lightly to improve circulation.

Uses ~subeki (should).

8

自然の中で体を動かすと、五感が研ぎ澄まされるような気がする。

When I move my body in nature, I feel as if my five senses are being sharpened.

Uses ~you na ki ga suru (feel as if).

1

身体的活動、すなわち体を動かすことは、認知機能の低下を防ぐ鍵となる。

Physical activity—namely, moving the body—is the key to preventing cognitive decline.

Uses 'sunawachi' (namely/in other words).

2

単に体を動かすだけでなく、呼吸を意識することがヨガの神髄だ。

The essence of yoga is not just moving the body, but being conscious of one's breath.

Uses 'tanni ~ dake de naku' (not just...).

3

労働環境の改善には、社員が自由に体を動かせるスペースの確保が必要だ。

To improve the working environment, it's necessary to secure space where employees can freely move their bodies.

Formal business/policy language.

4

彼は言葉で説明するよりも、実際に体を動かして見せるタイプだ。

He is the type who shows by actually moving his body rather than explaining with words.

Comparative structure 'yori mo'.

5

都市開発において、市民が日常的に体を動かせる環境作りが求められている。

In urban development, there is a demand for creating environments where citizens can move their bodies on a daily basis.

Passive 'motomerarete iru' (is being demanded).

6

五感をフルに活用し、全身を使って体を動かすことで、自己表現の幅が広がる。

By utilizing the five senses to the fullest and moving the body with the whole self, the range of self-expression expands.

C1 level vocabulary like 'full ni katsuyou'.

7

適度に体を動かすことが、クリエイティブな発想を生むきっかけになることも多い。

Moving the body moderately often serves as a catalyst for generating creative ideas.

Uses 'kikkake' (catalyst/trigger).

8

身体の不自由な方でも、無理なく体を動かせる補助器具が普及しつつある。

Assistive devices that allow even those with physical disabilities to move their bodies without strain are becoming widespread.

Uses ~tsutsu aru (is in the process of).

1

身体知、つまり体を動かすプロセスを通じて得られる知識は、言語化が極めて困難である。

Embodied knowledge—that is, knowledge obtained through the process of moving the body—is extremely difficult to verbalize.

Academic term 'shintaichi' (embodied knowledge).

2

武道において、無駄を削ぎ落として体を動かす極意を悟るには、長年の修行を要する。

In martial arts, realizing the secret of moving the body by stripping away the unnecessary requires years of training.

Literary verbs like 'sogiotosu' and 'satoru'.

3

生命の本質は、絶えず体を動かし、環境と相互作用し続ける点にあると言えよう。

It could be said that the essence of life lies in the point of constantly moving the body and continuing to interact with the environment.

Philosophical 'to ieyou' ending.

4

舞踏家は、重力に抗いながら体を動かすことで、人間の根源的な情動を表現する。

By moving the body while resisting gravity, the dancer expresses fundamental human emotions.

Complex grammar 'aragainagara' (while resisting).

5

AIがどれほど進化しようとも、肉体を持って実際に体を動かす人間の躍動感には及ばない。

No matter how much AI evolves, it cannot match the sense of dynamism of a human who possesses a physical body and actually moves it.

Concessive 'dore hodo ~ you tomo'.

6

解剖学的な知見に基づき、最も自然な形で体を動かすことが、怪我の防止とパフォーマンス向上に直結する。

Moving the body in the most natural way based on anatomical knowledge directly leads to injury prevention and performance improvement.

Formal 'chokketsu suru' (directly linked).

7

瞑想と体を動かす行為を融合させたその手法は、現代人の精神的救済の一助となっている。

That method, which fuses the act of moving the body with meditation, is helping as a form of spiritual relief for modern people.

Uses 'ichijo to natte iru' (is helping/contributing).

8

社会構造の変化に伴い、我々が「体を動かす」という行為に抱く意味合いも変容を遂げている。

Along with changes in social structure, the connotations we hold for the act of 'moving the body' are also undergoing transformation.

Formal 'henyou o togeru' (undergo transformation).

Collocations courantes

積極的に体を動かす (sekkyokuteki ni...) - Actively move the body
意識的に体を動かす (ishikiteki ni...) - Consciously move the body
軽く体を動かす (karuku...) - Lightly move the body
毎日体を動かす (mainichi...) - Move the body every day
外で体を動かす (soto de...) - Move the body outside
楽しく体を動かす (tanoshiku...) - Have fun moving the body
無理なく体を動かす (muri naku...) - Move the body without strain
一緒に体を動かす (issho ni...) - Move the body together
少しは体を動かす (sukoshi wa...) - Move the body at least a little
定期的に体を動かす (teikiteki ni...) - Periodically move the body

Souvent confondu avec

体を動かす vs 動く (ugoku)

体を動かす vs 引っ越す (hikkosu)

体を動かす vs 感動する (kandou suru)

Facile à confondre

体を動かす vs

体を動かす vs

体を動かす vs

体を動かす vs

体を動かす vs

Structures de phrases

Comment l'utiliser

formality

Undou (運動) is a noun/suru-verb. Karada o ugokasu is a verb phrase. The latter is more versatile in casual speech.

transitivity

Remember: You move (ugokasu) your body. Your body moves (ugoku).

Erreurs courantes
  • Using 'ugoku' instead of 'ugokasu' with the particle 'o'.
  • Using the phrase to mean 'moving to a new house'.
  • Over-relying on 'undou suru' for light activities like walking.
  • Forgetting the particle 'o' in formal writing.
  • Confusing 'karada o ugokasu' with 'karada o kitaeru' (which means to train/build muscle).

Astuces

Transitive vs Intransitive

Always remember that 'ugokasu' is transitive. You are the actor moving the object (your body). This distinguishes it from 'ugoku' (to move).

Casual vs Formal

Use 'karada o ugokasu' in daily life. Save 'undou suru' for when you're talking about specific sports or a gym routine. It makes you sound more like a native speaker.

Radio Taiso Connection

If you want to impress Japanese friends, mention 'Radio Taiso' when talking about moving your body. It's a shared cultural touchstone for physical activity.

The 'Refresh' Nuance

This phrase is often linked to 'kibun tenkan' (change of mood). Use it when you want to say that being active helps your mind feel better.

Pair with Adverbs

Adverbs like 'tekido ni' (moderately) or 'mainichi' (every day) go perfectly with this phrase. They help specify the level of activity you're talking about.

Listen for the 'O'

In fast speech, 'karada o' might sound like 'karada-wo' or just 'karada'. Focus on the verb 'ugokasu' to catch the meaning.

Nominalization

Turn the phrase into a noun using 'koto' or 'no'. 'Karada o ugokasu koto wa taisetsu desu' (Moving the body is important).

Expressing Desire

Use the '~tai' form after a long period of inactivity. 'Karada o ugokashitai!' is a common sentiment after a long flight or study session.

Don't say 'Karada o ugoku'

This is a common beginner mistake. 'Ugoku' is intransitive and cannot take the object marker 'o'. Stick to 'ugokasu'.

Workplace Breaks

This is a great phrase to use when you need to stand up and stretch in an office. It's a polite way to explain your movement.

Mémorise-le

Association visuelle

A person stretching their arms wide under a bright sun in a park.

Origine du mot

Contexte culturel

Japan has a very active senior population; 'karada o ugokasu' is a frequent topic in community centers for the elderly.

A daily exercise broadcast since 1928, synonymous with 'karada o ugokasu' for all ages.

Many Japanese companies have designated times for employees to stand up and move to prevent 'undou-busoku' (lack of exercise).

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Amorces de conversation

"最近、体を動かしていますか? (Have you been moving your body lately?)"

"どんな風に体を動かすのが好きですか? (How do you like to move your body?)"

"仕事中に体を動かす時間はありますか? (Do you have time to move your body during work?)"

"一緒に外で体を動かしませんか? (Would you like to move our bodies outside together?)"

"体を動かすと、気分がスッキリしますよね。 (Moving your body makes you feel refreshed, doesn't it?)"

Sujets d'écriture

今日、どのように体を動かしましたか? (How did you move your body today?)

体を動かす習慣について、どう思いますか? (What do you think about the habit of moving your body?)

もっと体を動かすために、何ができますか? (What can you do to move your body more?)

最後に思い切り体を動かしたのはいつですか? (When was the last time you moved your body with all your might?)

体を動かすことが、あなたのメンタルにどう影響しますか? (How does moving your body affect your mental state?)

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

運動する (undou suru) usually refers to formal exercise like sports or gym workouts. 体を動かす (karada o ugokasu) is a broader, more natural phrase that includes any physical activity, like walking, gardening, or stretching. It sounds less like a 'task' and more like a healthy habit.

Yes, it is very common in medical contexts. A physical therapist might tell a patient to 'slowly move your body' (ゆっくり体を動かしてください). In this case, it refers to the literal movement of limbs to regain function.

It is always 'karada o ugokasu.' The particle 'o' marks the body as the object being moved by you. Using 'ga' would be grammatically incorrect in this context.

No. For moving to a new residence, use 'hikkosu' (引っ越す). '体を動かす' only refers to physical movement of your anatomy.

You can say '体を動かしたい' (karada o ugokashitai). It sounds very natural and expresses a desire to be active.

Yes, it's perfectly fine. For example, if you've been in a long meeting, you might say '少し体を動かしてきます' (I'm going to move my body a bit) before taking a break.

It can, but 'working out' usually implies more intensity (like lifting weights). '体を動かす' is gentler and more general.

The potential form is '体を動かせる' (karada o ugokaseru), meaning 'can move the body.' This is used when talking about recovery or ability.

You can say '適度に体を動かしたほうがいいですよ' (It's better to move your body moderately). It sounds like gentle, caring advice.

Yes, you can say '犬が体を動かす' (The dog moves its body), though usually, we just say the animal is 'playing' or 'running.'

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