What is a Tensegrity Structure?

Origin: tens(ion) + (int)egrity

“Tensegrity describes a closed structural system composed of a set of three or more elongate compression struts within a network of tension tendons, the combined parts mutually supportive in such a way that the struts do not touch one another, but press outwardly against nodal points in the tension network to form a firm, triangulated, prestressed, tension and compression unit.” –Kenneth Snelson

Tensegrity is a type of structure, with integrity based on a balance between tension and compression components—the human body is a tensegrity structure where the compression components are the bones or skeleton and a network of tense cables represent the body’s fascial connective tissue, tendon, and muscle.