Besides hosting "Sport Science," John Brenkus, who grew up in Vienna, Va., is co-creator and co-owner of the popular series. His company, BASE Productions, has more than 10 programs to its name.

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

Brenkus, center, reviews video with colleagues Tom Heigl, left, and Mark Morris on the show's set in Burbank, Calif. The show has its detractors, but it has gained in popularity on TV and YouTube.

Charles Baus-ESPN

For three seasons, the show has used experiments to explore the scientific hows, whys and what-ifs in the sports world.

The show poses such questions as: Who would win in a footrace, man (in the form of ex-Detroit Lions wide receiver Dennis Northcutt) or ostrich? Answer: The bird.

"Sport Science"/BASE Productions

Brenkus was the test subject in an experiment demonstrating which squeezes harder, man or snake. Mixed martial arts star Fedor Emelianenko was stronger than a python for the time he squeezed, but a python can choke at full strength for hours.

"Sport Science"/BASE Productions

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis takes part in a "Sport Science" segment with Brenkus. Turns out Davis could drag the NFL's biggest defender across the goal line for the ultimate touchdown.

"Sport Science"/BASE Productions

Brenkus, 39, partnered with brother-in-law Mickey Stern to create BASE Productions. Brenkus heads up the company's West Coast operations, while Stern leads the East Coast office. Both men help develop shows and pitch them to networks.

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

"Sport Science" has won three Sports Emmy Awards and has a multi-year deal with ESPN.

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

Brenkus goes over the schedule for "Sports Science" with colleague Rebecca Kurland at BASE Productions' offices in Burbank. Brenkus played sports at James Madison High School in Vienna, Va., but says he "was never amazing at any of it. That set the tone for my appreciation of greatness. I knew my place."

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

John Brenkus with a sound engineer for the show. Besides "Sport Science," the company produces shows such as "Fight Science" on the National Geographic channel and "Fact or Faked: Paranormal Files" on SyFy.

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

John Brenkus runs with his wife, Lizzie, near their home in Calabasas, Calif. Brenkus has completed five Ironman competitions. "John started doing the Ironman because he asked a sports guy, 'What's the hardest thing a human can do?' " brother-in-law Mickey Stern says.

Michael Darter-for The Washington Post

Mickey Stern outside Verizon Center, where BASE's videos are shown during Wizards and Capitals games.

Benjamin C Tankersley-for The Washington Post