What is the primary function of tendons?

The primary function of tendons is to attach muscle to bone. Tendons are strong, fibrous connective tissues that are crucial in the musculoskeletal system, as they enable muscles to exert force on bones, thereby facilitating movement at joints. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, which in turn pulls on the bone to which it is attached, resulting in motion.

Understanding the role of tendons highlights their importance in any physical activity, whether it's simple movements like walking or complex actions like playing sports. The structure of tendons is designed to withstand tension and facilitate the transfer of force, making them essential for movement and overall function of the body. This differentiates their function clearly from other connective tissues, such as ligaments, which connect bone to bone, providing stability to joints, while tendons focus specifically on linking muscle to bone for movement.