Open Kinetic Chain vs Closed Kinetic Chain: What's the Difference?
There are two types of kinetic chain movements: open and closed.
There are two types of kinetic chain movements: open and closed. Open chain movements are those in which the limb or extremity is free to move. In contrast, closed chain movements involve contact between the moving part of the body and a stationary object. This article will define these terms and give examples of each type of movement. We will also discuss why it is important to know the difference between open and closed kinetic chains!
What exactly is a kinetic chain?
Kinetic chain is a term used in biomechanics to describe the sequence of muscular contractions that produce movement. In other words, it refers to the entire sequence of events that occur from the time you initiate a movement until that movement is completed.
What is a Closed Kinetic Chain Movement?
A closed kinetic chain movement is when the limb or extremity is in contact with a stationary, unyielding object. Closed chain actions movements are more stable than open chain movements because there is more contact between the body and the object being moved. Therefore, closed chain movements are often used in exercises that require strength and stability.
The key to closed kinetic chains is simultaneous multi-joint actions. Providing an improved environment for joint stability to occur.
Examples of Closed Kinetic Chain Movements
Some examples of closed chain movements are:
- Squats,
- Push-ups,
- Deadlifts, and
- Lunges.
These exercises involve contact between the body and a stationary object, making them more stable than open chain movements. They also require strength and stability, making them great exercises for overall fitness!
Benefits of Closed Kinetic Chain Exercises
- Closed chain exercises are more stable than open chain exercises, making them ideal for strengthening and stabilizing the muscles.
- Assist in improving posture
- Closed chain exercises are great for improving balance and coordination decreasing the risk of falls.
- They can help prevent injuries by strengthening the muscles and joints.
- Closed chain exercises are very effective at building muscle mass.
- They are an excellent way to improve functional strength and mobility.
- Strengthen core muscles
What is an Open Kinetic Chain Movement?
Open chain movements are typically more mobile and involve less stability than closed chain movements.
An open kinetic chain movement is when the limb or extremity is free to move. Open chain movements are typically more mobile and involve less stability than closed chain movements. They are often used in sports that require a lot of agility, such as basketball or soccer. Open chain actions often work around a single joint, isolating movement and muscle activity.
Examples of Open Kinetic Chain Movements
Some examples of open chain movements are:
- Throwing a ball,
- Bicep curl
- Swinging a bat,
- Waving, and
- Kicking a ball.
These motions involve the use of many different muscles and are very agile.
Benefits of Open Kinetic Chain Exercises
The benefits of open kinetic chain exercises are many! They are excellent for improving agility, coordination, and balance. They can also help prevent injuries by strengthening isolated muscles and joints. In addition, open chain exercises effectively build muscle mass and improve functional strength and mobility.
Why is it important to know the difference between Open and Closed Kinetic Chains?
Knowing the difference between open and closed kinetic chains is essential because it can help you choose the right exercises for your needs.
Open chain movements are more mobile and agile, while closed chain movements are more stable and strengthen the muscles better. As a result, open chain exercises improve flexibility and coordination. In contrast, closed chain exercises are great for increasing strength and stability.
Open chains are most often used in sports that require agility, such as basketball or soccer, while closed chains are most often used in weightlifting or other strength-training exercises. Knowing the difference between open and closed kinetic chains can help you create a more effective workout routine that meets your specific needs.
A Real-World Example of a Kinetic Chain
What is a real-world example of a closed kinetic chain?
A real-world example is when you are pushing a car:
- The car is the object being moved, and
- Your body is in contact with the car.
- This makes the movement more stable and uses more strength to push the car.
Another example is when you are carrying a suitcase:
- The suitcase is the object being moved, and
- Your body is in contact with the suitcase.
- This makes the movement more stable and allows you to use more strength to carry the suitcase.
What is a real-world example of an open kinetic chain?
A real-world example is when you are swinging a bat:
- The bat is the object being moved, and
- Your body is not in contact with the bat.
- This makes the movement more mobile and allows you to use more agility to swing the bat.
Another example is when you are throwing a ball:
- The ball is the object being moved, and
- Your body is not in contact with the ball.
- This makes the movement more mobile and allows you to use more agility to throw the ball.
Finally
Open kinetic chain exercises are excellent for improving agility, coordination, and balance. They can also help prevent injuries by strengthening isolated muscles and joints. Open chain exercises effectively build muscle mass and improve functional strength and mobility. Closed kinetic chain exercises are great for increasing strength and stability. Knowing the difference between open and closed kinetic chains can help you create a more effective movement, exercise, and/or rehabilitation routine that meets your specific needs. Thanks for reading!
PLEASE NOTE
PostureGeek.com does not provide medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical attention. The information provided should not replace the advice and expertise of an accredited health care provider. Any inquiry into your care and any potential impact on your health and wellbeing should be directed to your health care provider. All information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care or treatment.