Hometown: Wabash, IN

Instagram: @ilostbigandsocanyou

Facebook:  facebook.com/ilostbigandsocanyou

In November of 2012, Kristine Strange weighed 231 lbs. Tired of being tired, she set out in that same month to change her mind, body and future forever. By February of 2014, Kristine had lost 100 lbs using Weight Watchers. Today, she inspires thousands of people around the country to take control of their lives using various incentivization tools to promote weight loss and healthy eating. She now touts an Instagram account with over 160,000 followers, and she's only just getting started. Here's what Kristine had to say in response to a few questions from the Vooray team.

I strive to remain healthy and active because I've worked so hard to get where I am now. I have been up and down with my weight my entire life, and at my heaviest I weighed 231 pounds. I put in a lot of work in 16 months to drop 100 pounds and it's still just as much work to keep the weight off. I've learned that setting fitness goals helps me remain consistent! Last year I set out to run my first half marathon, and I enjoyed it so much that I signed up for another in May! It's amazing to set goals and follow through, because crossing that finish line was such a rewarding moment! 

If I was left with only one exercise for the rest of my life it would be running. I started off on the treadmill by walking at the start of my journey of 231 pounds. Over time I worked my way up to jogging and eventually running. Running allows me to have alone time with my favorite music after a long day to relieve stress and hit the pavement. The running community is also incredibly supportive, uplifting and empowering! 

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After giving it a few tries, I just cannot fall in love with spinning or cycling (indoors/outdoors, etc). Call me high maintenance, but nothing about that seat is comfortable! I don't care how much cushioning you shove in there, youch! :) I work a desk job, and I really don't want to be sitting any more than I already have been for the day. I prefer a workout that requires full body movement.

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For starters, I always have water - a big tumbler of it! I stress hydration, hydration, hydration! You won't find any pre or post workout supplements of any type, because during my weight loss of 100 pounds I didn't feel it was needed, and honestly, didn't have the extra cash at the time to be buying those types of things. I always have my ear buds (Sony, wrap around the ear - my all time favorite and less than $20!). I also always carry my QuadLock, which holds my phone on my arm when I am running (best arm band out there!). I also have several hair ties and headbands (owlbesweatin & fleurtybands are my favorite for staying in place), because those two things seem to magically disappear or walk off on their own. I always have chapstick. My lips always get dry, and I'll admit that I have a slight addiction to lip balm, so it's always great to have 1 or 2 on hand. Deodorant is also a must! Lastly, feminine products are always smart to have on hand just in case. :)

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My biggest hero is my fiance. He has lost 300 pounds through healthy eating and exercise. He inspires thousands of people every single day to prove to themselves that what seemed impossible is, in fact, possible. He lost the weight and now helps others do the same. After reaching his goal weight, Josh got his personal training certification. He helps me realize my potential and pushes me to do things I never thought I could do. I am so happy to have found such a motivational, inspiring, driven person! 

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I really wish I had an awesome story to share because I love laughing at myself, but nothing comes to mind! Tomorrow I will probably fall off the end of the treadmill!