Which of the following statements regarding tendons is true?

Tendons are strong, fibrous connective tissues that serve a critical role in the musculoskeletal system by connecting muscles to bones. When a muscle contracts, the force is transmitted through the tendon to the bone, facilitating movement at the joint. This relationship is fundamental to the mechanics of movement, as it allows for the leverage needed to perform various physical activities, from simple actions like walking to complex maneuvers in sports.

The other options describe relationships or functions that do not accurately reflect the role of tendons. While ligaments are responsible for connecting bones to other bones, tendons specifically serve to connect muscles to bones, which is vital for transferring muscle force to skeletal structures for movement. Additionally, while tendons can assist in the absorption of some shock during rapid movements, their primary function is not as shock absorbers but as connectors between muscles and bones. Therefore, stating that tendons exclusively connect muscles to bones is the most accurate and representative of their primary anatomy and function.