What type of muscle contraction maintains steady tension while the muscle length changes?

The correct answer is isotonic contraction. This type of muscle contraction occurs when a muscle changes length while maintaining a constant tension. Isotonic contractions can be further divided into two categories: concentric and eccentric.

During a concentric contraction, the muscle shortens while generating force, resulting in movement (like lifting a weight). Conversely, during an eccentric contraction, the muscle lengthens under tension as it controls the speed of the movement (such as lowering a weight).

Isotonic contractions are essential for everyday activities and many forms of physical training, as they facilitate dynamic movements that involve both the shortening and lengthening of the muscle. This ability to maintain tension while changing length highlights the importance of isotonic contractions for functional strength and movement efficiency.