What effect does excessive flexibility in a muscle-tendon unit have?

Excessive flexibility in a muscle-tendon unit can lead to decreased force production. This is primarily because a muscle needs a certain level of tension and stiffness to generate optimal force. When a muscle-tendon unit becomes excessively flexible, it may lose its ability to effectively transmit that force during movement. This phenomenon is often referred to as "overstretching," which can result in a diminished capacity to produce powerful contractions.

Under normal physical conditions, an appropriate range of motion is essential for performance and injury prevention. However, when flexibility exceeds the physiological requirements, the elastic properties that contribute to force generation may be compromised, thus hindering performance. This decreased effectiveness can impact athletic performance, especially in activities that require explosive strength or quick, powerful movements.