Which statement about eccentric contractions and muscle damage is true?

• A. They have no effect on muscle tissue
• B. They cause fewer microtears than concentric contractions
• C. Eccentric contractions produce more microtears
• D. They reduce muscle soreness by repairing fibers

Answer: (C)

Eccentric contractions involve the muscle lengthening under tension, such as slowly lowering a weight. This lengthening under load creates greater force and strain on the muscle fibers and their connective tissue than an equivalent shortening action. That extra mechanical strain causes more microtears in the muscle fibers, especially in the sarcomeres and surrounding structures, which is why eccentrics are more damaging to muscle tissue initially. As a result, these contractions are more likely to lead to muscle soreness after exercise as the body repairs and adapts.

So the statement that eccentric contractions produce more microtears best captures the idea of how they affect muscle tissue. The other options—no effect, fewer microtears than concentric, or reducing soreness by repairing fibers—don’t fit because damage occurs with eccentric loading and soreness is typically greater, not reduced, in the immediate aftermath.