Which term refers to the ability of a tissue to resist a particular load?

The term that refers to the ability of a tissue to resist a particular load is stiffness. Stiffness is a mechanical property that indicates how much a material deforms under a given force or load. In the context of biological tissues, stiffness is an important factor because it affects how tissues can support loads and maintain their structure when forces are applied.

Stiffness can be quantified by the ratio of stress (force applied per unit area) to strain (deformation resulting from the applied force). A tissue that has high stiffness will deform less under a given load, meaning it can resist that load effectively while maintaining its integrity.

This concept is crucial in athletic training and rehabilitation, as understanding the stiffness of various tissues (like tendons, ligaments, and muscles) can help practitioners develop appropriate training and injury prevention strategies.