The movement of a machine element associated with a machine axis of a machine is simulated with a model by inputting in the model a movement to be performed by the machine element, and determining with the model at least one of a position profile, a velocity profile and a torque profile suitable for optimized movement of the movable machine element, as well as a predetermined quality function and a limitation for the movement of the machine axis. The position profile, velocity profile or torque profile is then used as a reference or pilot control variable in a control loop to control the moving machine element. The predetermined quality function is an integral of the square of a torque or of a variable which is directly related to the torque. The method can be used to optimize the guided movement of the machine element.