What characteristic differentiates open skills from closed skills?

The characteristic that differentiates open skills from closed skills is the stability of the environment in which the skill is performed. Open skills occur in dynamic, unpredictable environments where the performer must adapt their actions based on external factors, such as other players in a sport or changing weather conditions. For example, dribbling a basketball during a game requires constant adjustment to opponents' movements.

In contrast, closed skills are performed in stable and predictable environments, allowing the performer to execute the movement without the need for quick adaptations. An example of a closed skill is executing a gymnastics routine where the conditions and parameters of the performance space do not change.

This distinction is fundamental in understanding how different skills are taught, practiced, and performed, as open skills often require more decision-making and adaptability compared to closed skills.