In which type of contraction does the muscle shorten while maintaining tension?

The correct answer is concentric contraction, which occurs when a muscle shortens while generating tension. This type of contraction is commonly seen during activities like lifting weights or performing certain movements in sports, where the muscle fibers actively contract to overcome resistance and create movement.

During a concentric contraction, the muscle fibers shorten as they pull on the bones to which they are attached, leading to movement of the joint. For example, when you perform a bicep curl, as you lift the weight towards your shoulder, the biceps undergo a concentric contraction, becoming shorter while still exerting force.

In contrast, isometric contraction involves tension in the muscle without any change in its length, meaning the muscle does not shorten or lengthen. Eccentric contraction refers to the process where a muscle lengthens while still under tension, often occurring as the muscle controls the descent of a weight. Static contraction is another term referring to holding a position without movement, similar to isometric contraction.

Understanding these differences helps in the application of various types of muscle contractions in training and rehabilitation settings, emphasizing the importance of concentric movements for building strength and power.