The Effects of Open Versus Closed Kinetic Chain Exercises on Ankle Joint Function

An open chain exercise is one that allows the furthest part of the chain to move freely. For example, picking up a glass of water is an open-chain exercise. The hand affects the elbow and the shoulder as it is not fixed in place. However, it does not effect the rest of your body.

Closed Kinetic Chain (CKC) exercises or closed chain exercises are exercises or movements where the distal aspect of the extremity is fixed to an object that is stationary.