Meet Dr. Jason Barker
A 5th generation Coloradan, I grew up skiing, climbing, running and mountain biking in the Rocky Mountains.
I’ve always been fascinated with human performance.
I’m passionate about helping athletes uncover and resolve hidden health limitations so that they can unleash better performance, faster recovery and vigorous health.
As a life-long athlete, I get it. I’ve been injured, and have struggled with health issues just like everyone else. From asthma as a kid, to long bouts of tendonitis and dealing with scoliosis, I’m always looking for ways to maintain my health and performance, and even more so now as I move farther up the Master’s group approaching middle age!
I’m a solid upper middle-of-the-pack athlete and I’ve had to work hard - diet, training and recovery need to be firing on all cylinders for me to be decently competitive.
And, as a dad, doctor and athlete, juggling priorities and managing the stressors that are part of a full life is an ongoing challenge - I can certainly identify with everyone who's working hard to stay fit and on top of their game.
My Professional Training
Fortunately, I’ve been able to take good care of myself as a naturopathic/functional medicine doctor for the last 18+ years.
I got my start with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Medicine with a Minor in Anatomy and Neurobiology from Colorado State University. Looking for some adventure after college, I worked as an EMT on the Copper Mountain ski patrol for the next 4 years.
I then left the mountains for the desert where I attended medical school. I'd had my fill of the desert (which is easy when you're a Coloradan) so next I headed to Portland, Oregon for my residency program. There, I completed additional postdoctoral training at Oregon Health & Science University earning a Certificate in Clinical Research.
These days, in addition to private practice, I now serve as a clinical consultant to the nutraceutical and sports medicine industry and have authored numerous journal articles.
My Personal Passion for Performance
I enjoy staying fit and seeing how far I can push myself (all the while maintaining a practice and family)! I’m a two-time Ironman triathlon finisher (along with a number of sprint, olympic and half-ironman distance triathlons), recreationally competitive runner, cyclist, and swimmer.
My latest hobby is getting back into climbing and mountaineering. I also do a bit of yoga to keep myself flexible.
I believe that exercise is the best medicine and fitness is not just a way of life, but can truly save a person’s health on multiple levels - physical, mental and even spiritual.
How I Can Help You
After 18+ years of private practice, I’m excited to expand my health coaching services online to serve more people. I’m passionate about helping active and athletic people be their healthiest by uncovering hidden health limitations through a variety of advanced testing methods.
You can experience better recovery, improved energy levels, and overall better performance once we evaluate and review your personal test results -this helps me to find the root cause of functional health issues that can hold you back.
If you want to stay at the top of your game, for as long as you can, I invite you to schedule a complimentary Athletic Performance Breakthrough Session here.