Every deadlift, squat and bench press the Western Bulldogs execute in the gym directly links to their power, agility and speed out on the ground according to Strength Coach Andy Barnett.

Working alongside the playing group for the past twelve months, Barnett said the playing group now understand his philosophy and are physically ready to go to handle more strength training.

“Last year we kept talking about ‘if it doesn’t transfer out onto the field then why are you doing it’ and this year they understand that,” Barnett said.

“The players this year seem to have a better grasp of how to get under a heavy bar and actually be comfortable there and move it – which I think was a large focus of our program last year.

“They have definitely shown more improvement in being able to utilise that strength out on the field, get it into our speed work and our agility work.”

The Bulldogs have already made solid gains this pre-season, adjusting to heavier weights and looking for the next challenge.

“They have come back… in very good shape strength-wise and as such we have been able to jump into the heavier weights sooner and like I said they are handling it,” he said.

“They are able to get under the bar, their technique is good and they are showing me they are ready to go to the next level.”

While last summer the emphasis was on two longer sessions each week, the strength training schedule is now set over four days. 

Barnett has also been impressed by the first year players who are joining the program, believing they possess the natural attributes to thrive in the environment.

“The rookies, the guys that we’ve drafted they have come in and they are definitely a good group as far as what goes on in the weight room, as far as the physical training and conditioning goes,” he said.

“I’m seen some strength there, some coordination, I’m seeing some things the scouts definitely saw in these guys.

“It’s manifested here in the physical conditioning side of things.”