Does a lot of muscle protect you?

Fitness

I heard an extreme sports guy say that muscle is the best body armour. Does having bigger muscles really protect you?
John Wardell, Sheffield

Jason Anderson answers: The prime function of muscle is to generate force. However, muscle can also help to maintain body temperature, increase metabolism, give the body shape and support the skeleton. And because it’s denser than body fat, muscle also acts as a protective body suit and will help to protect the more vital areas of the body during collisions. Another reason why athletes in contact sports build muscle.