[lilwupster]

you can try the optimize modifier, but it probably won't do you too much good.
To work with the model, you can either hide the polygon and just work with the bones until you're ready to render, then unhide and render.
Or you could go into the polygon's properties and select 'display as box' and still just work with the bones. It will still render, but you will not see it in the viewport making the environment easier to work in.