Today we’d like to introduce you to Nicholas Renfro.
Hi Nicholas , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started running in 2018 as a way to manage my physical health while working in law enforcement. What began as a fitness goal quickly became something much deeper. Running helped me process stress, clear my mind, and protect my mental health in a demanding profession. Around the same time, my wife began her own running journey and experienced those same mental and emotional benefits.
Together, we combined our love for running and travel with a goal of completing all the World Marathon Majors. Along the way, we met incredible people and saw inspiring places, but we also noticed parts of running culture that felt unintentionally exclusive. In 2024, we created Kanvas Movement to change that. Our mission is to support both the physical and mental benefits of movement, build an inclusive community, and create high quality products that help everyone feel like they belong, no matter their pace, body type, or background.
Our first hero product, the Session Bag, was created from our recognition that everyone needs a simple, functional way to carry the essentials for whatever daily session they are engaging in. Whether that is a run, gym workout, walk, or class, the Session Bag is designed to hold your shoes, headphones, keys, phone, fuel, and any other workout essentials you need for that particular session, all in one easy, grab-and-go bag. More than just storage, it represents what Kanvas Movement stands for: thoughtful design, inclusivity, and support for every kind of movement journey. It is built to meet you where you are and remind you that every session counts.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Neither my wife nor I come from entrepreneurial backgrounds, so building Kanvas Movement has been both an exciting and humbling journey for us. Everything about starting and growing a brand is new territory, and we are learning as we go, step by step. While it is challenging at times, it has also been incredibly rewarding to build something meaningful together. We are grateful for the opportunity to grow, adapt, and improve, and we are genuinely excited to continue this journey side by side as we build our business and community.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
With an education in psychology, a background in social work, and a career in law enforcement, I’ve had unique exposure to trauma. That experience led me to seek balance through running. Along that journey, I’ve completed four World Marathon Majors and qualified for the Boston Marathon four times.
Like many, I found running later in life and wanted to understand the mechanics and science of the sport so I could share how to run safely, healthily, and efficiently. That curiosity led me to become a USATF-certified running coach.
The products and culture we create aren’t just for “elite” athletes they’re for everyone. We all fit in here.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Since 2020, I have seen the running and fitness space grow exponentially, with more people turning to movement as a way to care for both their physical and mental health. Looking ahead to the next five to ten years, I believe this growth will only continue as movement becomes an even more normalized part of everyday life. I also believe that many of the traditional barriers to entry in the fitness and running world will keep breaking down, making the space feel more open, welcoming, and accessible to people of all backgrounds, body types, and ability levels. Most importantly, I see a future where movement is embraced less as a performance-driven identity and more as a healthy way to balance life, with far less judgment around pace, appearance, or expectations, and far more emphasis on consistency, well-being, and community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Kanvasmovement.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kanvas_movement?igsh=MTB5OGhyeW01dGR4aA==
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565742564815
