The invention relates to a rod-shaped structure comprising a plurality of tubular segments that are arranged in a longitudinal axis of the rod and can be braced with a central tensioning core (3) to form a rod that is dimensionally stable in operation. The rod-shaped structure also comprises connecting pieces (1, 2) for connecting segments in the braced state and has an overload protection. The overload protection is ensured in a reliable and defined manner in that the connecting pieces (1, 2) have slip-off faces (7, 7') which, by sliding against one another, cause a rotary movement between the segments around an instantaneous centre of rotation (4) that is spaced from the tensioning core (3) at a moment load transversely to the rod against a spring preload of the tensioning core (3).