TOM ROCKLIFF joined a lengthy Brisbane Lions rehab group on Wednesday, but said it was nothing to worry about.
The Lions skipper niggled his hamstring on Monday and opted to spend more time signing autographs than running laps at a fan day organised by the club as part of its Sunshine Coast pre-season camp.
"I'm better off resting it today and doing the main session on Friday," Rockliff said.
It's part of a more conservative approach the Lions are taking this pre-season after a catastrophic injury toll helped derail its past two years.
Dayne Beams (knee), Darcy Gardiner (shoulder and ankle) and Josh Green (foot) were among those on lighter duties at Maroochydore on Wednesday, but all are expected to be fit and available for the NAB Challenge next month.
Rockliff said there had been some noticeable changes in pre-season training with the appointment of Damien Austin – formerly from the Sydney Swans – to head the Lions' physical performance department.
"I think if it was a month's time and still the same number (in rehab), it'd be a concern, but Damien's been all about getting ready for round one, not so much for the NAB Cup," Rockliff said.
"In saying that, we'd like to see a few more numbers on the track.
"It's a completely different program to what we've done in the past. We individualise weights programs a lot more now and running programs.
"We think we're on the right track and we're getting ready for round one."
Green was hobbled in a moon boot, but the club says the problem is just bruising and strictly precautionary following a stress fracture in the same foot that cost him six matches in 2015.
Beams has a knee niggle but will be back with the main group in a fortnight, as will Gardiner, who has recovered strongly following off-season ankle and shoulder surgeries.
Young defender Josh Watts (groin) and rookie Cian Hanley (adductor) are the only players expected to be unavailable for pre-season matches.