People bring in their patio furniture, cover plants and put snow tires on cars, but when it comes to winterizing workouts, many just freeze up, according to a release from Life Fitness, a designer of workout equipment for fitness facilities.

As the days get shorter and the need for tanks, shorts and bikinis is lost, workout motivation can get lost in the shuffle as well. It doesn't help that winter naturally lowers immune systems and comfort foods laden with sugar and fat are abound, putting everyone in a more sluggish state.

So this fall, prepare to have a winter workout by following these recommendations from Life Fitness:

Find a buddy: Trekking through the snow to the gym won't be so bad if you have a buddy. Arrange for a carpool to pick you up at certain times each day, and share stories while walking or running on the treadmill together.

Take it outside before bringing it inside: The temps may have plummeted, but the fresh air and sunshine are still good for you. Try running to the gym instead of driving, or park in a spot further away from the entrance to the health club. Just remember to bundle up with light layers.

Try something new: Maybe you've always wanted to try the Zumba class or felt like hiring a personal trainer. Winter months are the perfect time to try a new activity to keep you motivated and moving.

Change your routine: The thought of modeling a bikini may have kept you crunching your way to a six-pack all summer, but as it gets colder, try changing your routine by adding free weights or spending more time on the elliptical cross-trainer. Remember strength routines should be changed every six to eight week to keep your body from hitting a plateau.

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