I always liked to move the cyclic so as to move one actuator at a time....generally done by using an X-Pattern vice a scrub out the cockpit method. That isolates any binding, sticky points, or feedback to a single actuator.
Along with the Pilot's manual....reading the maintenance manual can suggest other methods that might prove useful.
The Chinook procedures used to require one to hit all four corners with the cyclic and full up-down on the Thrust Lever (Collective to Skid Kids). That check was done for each flight control system prior to engine start.
If you had a short legged guy in the other seat....it could get a bit painful for him if he had run his seat forward....and you wore out the aft corners for a bit.