ACE Personal Trainer Practice Exam

What physiological response is primarily monitored by Golgi tendon organs?

1. Changes in muscle length

2. Changes in muscle tension

3. Joint angle changes

4. Muscle contraction force

The correct answer is: Changes in muscle tension

Golgi tendon organs are specialized sensory receptors located at the junctions between muscles and tendons. They are primarily responsible for monitoring changes in muscle tension. When a muscle contracts, the tension generated is transmitted to the Golgi tendon organs. These organs detect the magnitude of this tension and send signals to the central nervous system, which helps regulate muscle contraction and prevent excessive force that could lead to injury. This monitoring function plays a vital role in the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis and protect muscles and tendons from damage. For instance, if the tension becomes too high, the Golgi tendon organs facilitate a reflexive response that inhibits muscle contraction thus preventing potential harm. The other options, while related to muscle performance and mechanics, do not accurately represent the specific function of Golgi tendon organs. They do not directly measure changes in muscle length or joint angles; instead, they focus solely on the tension exerted by muscles during contraction. Consequently, these organs play a crucial role in proprioception and the regulation of muscle activity.