Size is Not Always Better

Question: what do weeks of failed experiments of running rats on the treadmill yield?

Answer: the following observation -- rats have disproportionally large testicles!

After observing the enormity of their testicles for the past year, the budding researcher (and the avid, concerned runner) in me asked the following question: what percent of total body mass do rat testicles comprise? So, during the past several weeks, in addition to carrying out my original experimental design, I have learned the following: that rat testicles constitute, on average, 2.1% of their total body mass (n=7). Shocking, I know!

So how does that translate for humans? Assuming that the same ratio existed for a 200 lb man, for example, then that man -- unfortunate as it is -- would be schlepping around 4.2 lbs of testicles! To help you appreciate the sheer weight of 4.2 lbs, consider having to schlep between your legs (for life, that is) one of the following:

13 baseballs
10 softballs
22 CDs in standard jewel cases
9 VHS tapes in cardboard cases
a 5 lb bag of sugar minus several cups
a 2 liter bottle of your favorite soda

Research does not always lead to application, but does at times stir a greater sense of appreciation -- for all things both great and small! Likewise, as a runner who does not like the chronic chafing that often accompanies a long run, this serendipitous rodent observation helps me appreciate the fact that size is not always better!