What structure connects muscles to bones?

The structure that connects muscles to bones is tendons. Tendons are strong bands of connective tissue that attach the ends of muscles to various bones, allowing for movement when muscles contract. When a muscle contracts, it pulls on the tendon, which in turn pulls on the bone to create motion at the joint. Tendons are crucial for transferring force generated by muscles to the skeletal system, enabling various movements such as walking, running, and lifting.

Ligaments, on the other hand, connect bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and support. Cartilage serves as a cushioning material between bones and reduces friction in joints, but it does not connect muscles to bones. Muscle fibers themselves are the contractile components of muscles, not structures that connect to the skeleton.