Which property of muscle tissue allows it to return to its original shape after being stretched?

The ability of muscle tissue to return to its original shape after being stretched is attributed to its elasticity. Elasticity refers to the property of muscle fibers that enables them to stretch when a force is applied and then recoil back to their original length once that force is removed. This property is crucial for muscle function as it allows for efficient movement and energy storage during activities such as running or jumping.

In the context of muscle properties, excitability refers to the muscle's ability to respond to stimuli, while extensibility pertains to the muscle’s capability to be stretched. Eccentric describes a type of muscle contraction where the muscle lengthens under tension. However, it is elasticity that specifically defines the muscle’s capacity to regain its shape after being stretched.