There is a lot of controversy regarding Closed Kinetic and Open Kinetic Chain exercises. The bottom line question to ask is what is your Goal? Do you want to get stronger, bigger muscles, take care of an injury, increase balance, mobility, oh what about increasing flexibility? Both Closed and Open Kinetic Chain exercise have benefits to fit every need. To keep it simple just ask a Professional Trainer what is best for you. Get a kinetic chain assessment and get with a balanced program. Folks that is why we have PERSONAL TRAINING! Everyone of us are uniquely created, wonderfully and fearfully made!
Closed Kinetic Chain exercises for the upper body include push ups, chin ups, and dips which concentrate on a co-contraction of the triceps, biceps, shoulders, pectorals, lats, abdominal and lower back for stabilization in various ratios depending upon angle and leverage.
Closed Kinetic Chain exercises for the lower body include squats, dead lifts, lunges, power cleans; these concentrate on a co-contraction of the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip flexors, soleus, and gastrocnemius muscles. The joints of movement include the knee, hip, and ankle.
These are more functional movements and use more muscle groups than Open Kinetic Chain Exercises. Great for Crossfitters, Boot Campers and folks with injuries that need strength in weakened muscles and joints.
Open Kinetic Chain exercises are performed where the hand or foot is free to move.
Open Kinetic Chain exercises for upper body include bicep curls, lying triceps extensions and bench press. Lower body exercises include the Leg Extension and Leg Curls.
All is good friends. Most of my clients know they are going to get a mix. I want to stimulate every muscle fiber I can creating an incredible strong and balanced body. But hear me out, your needs will be unique from others so be careful doing YouTube exercises that may not be right for you!
Remember You are wonderfully and fearfully made.
Keep Strong!
Never Give Up!
Kathy Andrews CPT/NASM/AEA/COOPERS/TRX TRAINER/LIFE STYLE WEIGHT MGMT