Which movement is a closed-chain movement?

• A. Bicep Curl
• B. Leg Extension
• C. Squat (Correct)
• D. Hip Abduction

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is fixed distal contact. A closed-chain movement has the far end (the part farthest from the body) fixed to a surface so it can’t move freely, forcing multiple joints to work together as a connected chain.

In a squat, your feet stay planted on the ground throughout the movement, so the distal ends are fixed. The hips, knees, and ankles move in coordination while the feet don’t slide or lift, exemplifying a closed-chain pattern.

The other options involve a distal segment that moves freely through space. A bicep curl, for example, moves the hand through space, isolating the elbow while the hand isn’t fixed. A leg extension likewise moves the lower leg and foot, not keeping the end fixed to a surface. Hip abduction typically involves moving the thigh away from the midline with the foot not fixed to the ground, making it an open-chain movement.