Strength, flexibility, alignment and stress levels are four of the basic building blocks for most active Roaring Fork Valley lifestyles. And they also happen to form the basic tenets of the business model behind 6-year-old spine and wellness destination the Aspen Back Institute.

Located inside the St. Regis Resort Aspen for the last three years (and based in founder Clint Phillips' home before that), the company has made a name for itself through its customized, holistic approach to chronic back pain, combining chiropractic therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, yoga, strength training and nutrition into several week-long, multi-thousand dollar retreats. But with ABI's recent acquisition of a patent for the Ideal Stretch stretching mate, the company is trying to bring a small aspect of its business to the masses - no matter the budget.

And Phillips is already set to take the product national with showcases at expos around the country as well as U.S. and Canadian TV ad spots, and a slot on QVC.

The product hooks around the back of the foot, and features handles that give the user increased leverage while stretching. The patented knee strap keeps the knee locked to prevent injury.

"The product really keeps you in correct alignment," Phillips says. "It gives the ankle support, and the patented strap keeps the knee locked into place, which prevents injury. A lot of people will try to just put a towel around their feet, but that doesn't give you the right support."

Phillips officially acquired the patent six months ago, and says that the product has already sold more than 4,000 copies.

"A lot of runners have said this is exactly the type of thing they've been looking for," Phillips says, adding that he plans to have a booth at the expo in Chicago before the Chicago marathon. "And a lot of clients we have want to know what they can do after they leave and go home. And while the Ideal Stretch isn't as good as what we can do, it's a lot better than what they were doing at home."

Infomercials in Canada will start next month, with ads in the U.S. beginning after Nov. 4, as the presidential candidates have caused the price of TV ad space to rise sharply. The QVC spots will start in January.

"We wanted to have something with mass appeal," Phillips says. "We have a bunch of different supplements and orthotics here, but not everyone can use or afford them. But 99 percent of clients can use this, and it's only $45."

damien@aspendailynews.com [1]