Understanding how the
body and all of its segments work together is essential for developing
effective exercise programs. Furthermore, knowing the difference between open-
and closed-chain movements can help you to select appropriate exercises based
on the individual needs of each client.
What is a Kinetic
Chain?
The concept of the kinetic chain originated in 1875, when a mechanical engineer
named Franz Reuleaux proposed that if a series of overlapping segments were
connected via pin joints, these interlocking joints would create a system that
would allow the movement of one joint to affect the movement of another joint
within the kinetic link. Dr. Arthur Steindler adapted this theory in 1955, and
included an analysis of human movement. Steindler suggested that the
extremities be viewed as a series of rigid, overlapping segments and defined
the kinetic chain as a "combination of several successively arranged
joints constituting a complex motor unit." The movements that occur within
these segments present as two primary types—open and closed.
- Seated leg extension
- Leg curl
- Bench press
- Dumbbell biceps curl
- Lat pull-down
Closed-chain Movement
- Squat
- Leg press
- Wall slides
- Lunges
- Elliptical training
- Stair stepper
- Versa Climber
- Push-ups
from The American Council on Exercise
What is a Kinetic
Chain?
The concept of the kinetic chain originated in 1875, when a mechanical engineer named Franz Reuleaux proposed that if a series of overlapping segments were connected via pin joints, these interlocking joints would create a system that would allow the movement of one joint to affect the movement of another joint within the kinetic link. Dr. Arthur Steindler adapted this theory in 1955, and included an analysis of human movement. Steindler suggested that the extremities be viewed as a series of rigid, overlapping segments and defined the kinetic chain as a "combination of several successively arranged joints constituting a complex motor unit." The movements that occur within these segments present as two primary types—open and closed.
Open-chain Movement
Steindler defined open
kinetic chain is defined as a combination of successively arranged joints in
which the terminal segment can move freely. In an open-chain movement, the
distal aspect of the extremity, or the end of the chain farthest from the body,
moves freely and is not fixed to an object. Here are some examples of
open-chain exercises:
- Seated leg extension
- Leg curl
- Bench press
- Dumbbell biceps curl
- Lat pull-down
Closed-chain Movement
Steindler defined
closed-kinetic chain exercise as a condition or environment in which the distal
segment meets considerable external resistance and restrains movement. In a
closed-chain movement, the distal end of the extremity is fixed, emphasizing
joint compression and, in turn, stabilizing the joints. Closed-chain exercises,
such as the examples below, are considered to be more functional than
open-chain exercises.
- Squat
- Leg press
- Wall slides
- Lunges
- Elliptical training
- Stair stepper
- Versa Climber
- Push-ups
from The American Council on Exercise
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