- B.S. – Exercise Science, Seattle Pacific University
- M.S. – Exercise Science, Central Washington University
- Ph.D. – Exercise Physiology, University of New Mexico
- University Department Health and Human Performance
- Location Congdon Hall 1047-B
- Phone Number +1 (336) 841-9454
- Email [email protected]
Colin Carriker, Ph.D., EP-C, FAHA is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health and Human Performance at High Point University, where he specializes in bridging the gap between scientific research and practical application. He holds a Ph.D. in Exercise Physiology from the University of New Mexico and is a Certified Exercise Physiologist (EP-C) and Fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA).
With over a decade of experience in the field, Dr. Carriker brings a unique perspective to his teaching and research, having worked as a personal trainer, group fitness instructor, and Emergency Medical Technician. His research agenda is centered on the effects of dietary supplements—such as beetroot juice, antioxidants, and caffeine—on exercise performance and cardiovascular health. His studies examine critical physiological markers like oxygen consumption, arterial stiffness, and oxidative stress in various environmental conditions, including high altitude and extreme temperatures.
Dr. Carriker has published numerous manuscripts, including co-authoring a scientific statement from the American Heart Association on cardiovascular health and cannabis use. He sits on national committees and previously served Advocacy Ambassador for the American Heart Association’s Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health. He is a prolific presenter, sharing his research at conferences such as the American College of Sports Medicine’s Health and Fitness Summit, American Heart Association’s Industry Nutrition Forum, the National Strength and Conditioning Association’s Annual Conference, IDEA Personal Training Institute, the International Society of Sports Nutrition’s Annual Conference and Expo, and IDEA World Fitness Convention.
Select Publications:
Nitrate-Containing Beetroot Juice Reduces Oxygen Consumption During Submaximal Exercise in Low but Not High Aerobically Fit Male Runners. Carriker CR, Vaughan RA, VanDusseldorp TA, Johnson KE, Beltz NM, McCormick JJ, Cole NH, Gibson AL. J Exerc Nutrition Biochem. 2016 Dec 31;20(4):27-34. doi: 10.20463/jenb.2016.0029.
Effect of Acute Dietary Nitrate Consumption on Oxygen Consumption During Submaximal Exercise in Hypobaric Hypoxia. Carriker CR, Mermier CM, Van Dusseldorp TA, Johnson KE, Beltz NM, Vaughan RA, McCormick JJ, Cole NH, Witt CC, Gibson AL. Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab. 2016 Aug;26(4):315-22. doi: 10.1123/ijsnem.2015-0144. Epub 2015 Dec 2.
Nitrate-containing beetroot enhances myocyte metabolism and mitochondrial content. Vaughan RA, Gannon NP, Carriker CR. J Tradit Complement Med. 2015 Jan 8;6(1):17-22. doi: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2014.11.033. eCollection 2016 Jan.