Which body parts are included in the lower kinetic chain?

• A. Toes, feet, ankles, lower legs, knees, upper legs, pelvis, hip, spine
• B. Fingers, wrists, elbows, shoulders
• C. Neck and head only
• D. Shoulder girdle and rib cage

Answer: (A)

Movement in the lower body relies on the lower kinetic chain—segments from the toes up through the spine that transfer force and provide stability during movement. This chain includes the toes, feet, ankles, lower legs, knees, upper legs, pelvis, hip, and spine, forming a connected system that generates and carries force from the ground through the body.

That’s why the set including toes through the spine is the best choice: it captures the entire path from contact with the ground through the main supporting structures of the trunk and lower body. The other options point to parts of the body that belong to the upper kinetic chain—upper limbs, shoulders, neck, head, or the rib cage—rather than the lower body’s chain.