AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

What is the function of the Golgi tendon organ?

1. To detect changes in temperature

2. To protect the muscle from excessive shortening or lengthening

3. To generate muscle contractions

4. To provide balance and coordination

The correct answer is: To protect the muscle from excessive shortening or lengthening

The Golgi tendon organ plays a crucial role in the neuromuscular system by monitoring tension within the muscle tendons. It is a sensory receptor located at the junction of muscles and tendons and is primarily responsible for detecting changes in muscle tension rather than muscle length. When tensions become excessive, the Golgi tendon organ sends signals to the central nervous system, which can initiate a reflex that inhibits muscle contraction, thereby preventing muscle damage from excessive force or strain. This protective mechanism is vital for maintaining muscle and tendon integrity during physical activity. By contrast, the other functions described in the options do not accurately reflect the role of the Golgi tendon organ. For instance, detecting changes in temperature is managed by thermoreceptors, generating muscle contractions is the primary function of muscle fibers, and maintaining balance and coordination is primarily handled by the vestibular system and proprioceptors within the muscles and joints rather than the Golgi tendon organ itself.