Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

Which of the following is an example of a closed chain exercise in the upper extremity?

1. Military press

2. Push-up

3. Bicep curl

4. Codman's pendulum

The correct answer is: Push-up

A closed chain exercise is characterized by the condition where the distal segment (in this case, the hands or feet) is fixed in space and does not move, while the proximal segment of the body (the rest of the body) moves. The push-up is a prime example of a closed chain exercise because in a push-up, the hands are in a fixed position on the ground, while the body moves up and down. This type of exercise engages multiple muscle groups and joints, providing a comprehensive workout that involves not only the muscles of the upper extremity but also the core and lower body to maintain stability. In contrast, other options such as the military press and bicep curl involve movements where the arms move freely in space, making them open chain exercises. Codman's pendulum can involve varying movements that do not strictly meet the criteria of a closed chain since it often involves the arm hanging down and swinging freely rather than being fixed. Thus, the push-up stands out as the clear choice for being a closed chain exercise in the upper extremity.