Final answer:
Closed chain exercises are those in which the distal segment remains in contact with the supporting surface, like squats, whereas in open chain exercises, the hands or feet can move freely, such as during leg extensions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of exercises in which the distal segment remains in contact with the supporting surface are called closed chain exercises. These exercises are where the hand or foot is in a fixed position, and cannot move freely. An example of closed chain exercises are squats, where the feet remain in contact with the ground throughout the activity. On the other hand, open chain exercises involve actions where the hands or feet are free to move, such as leg extensions while seated on a machine.