Knee Extension Machine - Open or Closed Chain?

[Guest guest]

Denis Doyle wrote:

You can use a knee extension machine to exercise eccentrically but be aware

that you will put a much larger load through the patella tendon that if you

were performing a closed chain movement. Just start with very light

resistance and small reps. I would always ice down after exercise also.

Hi Denis,

Not that it is relevant to your point, but the knee extension (contrary to

popular opinion) is actually a Closed Chain action, with the femur planted

on the seat creating a " fixed base " and the shin pad " restricting free

movement " , thus " closing " the chain.

If one does not use the shin pad, and simply sits on a table and extends the

knee, then there is no restriction of free movement, and it is an " Open

Kinetic Chain " .

Thought you might find that " tidbit " interesting as an " aside " , since it is

so common for people to call using the knee extension machine an " open

chain " .

Regards,

Casler

TRI-VECTOR 3-D Force Systems

Century City, CA

[Guest guest]

" Casler " wrote:

> Not that it is relevant to your point, but the knee extension

(contrary to

> popular opinion) is actually a Closed Chain action, with the femur

planted

> on the seat creating a " fixed base " and the shin pad " restricting free

> movement " , thus " closing " the chain.

>

> If one does not use the shin pad, and simply sits on a table and

extends the

> knee, then there is no restriction of free movement, and it is an " Open

> Kinetic Chain " .

>

> Thought you might find that " tidbit " interesting as an " aside " ,

since it is

> so common for people to call using the knee extension machine an " open

> chain " .

***

, so with this explanation a preacher curl would be closed

chain as well? What is your definition of a closed/open chain exercise?

Thanks

Mike Reid

Gothenburg, Sweden