What is NOT a characteristic of closed chain exercises?

The correct answer highlights that in closed chain exercises, the distal end of the limb is fixed to a solid surface, allowing movement to occur at the proximal joints. This fixation is fundamental to the nature of closed chain exercises, meaning that the proximal end is not fixed but rather moves due to the activity at the distal end.

For example, think about a squat: the feet are planted on the ground (the distal end is fixed), and as a result, the movements occur at the knees and hips. This design promotes stability, activation of multiple muscle groups, and functional movements that mimic daily activities. Closed chain exercises are highly beneficial for rehabilitation and strength training because they effectively engage multiple joints and muscle groups in a coordinated manner, which aligns with functional movement patterns.

This is contrasted with characteristics of open chain exercises, where the distal segment is free to move, allowing significant motion at a single joint without the same degree of stability or multiple joint engagement.