Which of the following is an open-chain exercise?

• A. Squat
• B. Push-up
• C. Bicep curl (Correct)
• D. Deadlift

Answer: (C)

Open-chain movements involve moving a distal segment (hand or foot) freely in space, not fixed to a surface. In a bicep curl, the hand and forearm travel through the range as the elbow flexes, with the hand not braced against anything—so the distal segment moves independently, isolating the elbow flexors.

In contrast, a squat has the feet planted on the floor, and a push-up keeps the hands on the floor, while a deadlift involves lifting a bar with the feet on the ground. In all of these, the distal segment is constrained by contact with a surface (ground or floor) and movement occurs through multiple joints as a chain, which is characteristic of closed-chain exercises.

So, the bicep curl is the open-chain example.