EXPECT the Western Bulldogs players to be much fitter this season, thanks largely to the work of Olympian Craig Mottram. 

The retired Australian long-distance runner has worked extensively with the Bulldogs throughout the pre-season, refining their running techniques and giving them an insight into competing at an elite level of sport.

Mottram, who won silver in the 5000m at the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne and bronze in same event at the 2005 world championships, said he had been impressed with the dedication the Bulldogs players had shown in improving their endurance bases this pre-season. 

"Running is a pretty simple sport, but not many people do it well," Mottram told AFL.com.au.

"When people find it hard that's when everything goes out the window and they forget the simple things. 

"It's just about teaching them (the players) to learn to love it and to not be afraid of a running session."

The twice-a-week sessions have involved individualised coaching, with Mottram splitting the players into two groups. 

The older, more experienced players have primarily focused on building on their existing fitness bases and further enhancing their "efficiency of movement". 

Meanwhile, Mottram has worked with the younger players to further develop their skill sets.

Mottram has worked closely with Bulldogs high performance manager Justin Cordy in constructing the sessions to fit in with the players' programs and individual needs. 

There has been emphasis on both aerobic and anaerobic running, with the sessions comprising fartlek and interval training to better manage players' heart rates and keep them in recognisable fitness zones.

The players meet with Mottram at set times during the week and he joins them in their sessions so that he can offer advice and encouragement while running alongside them.

"With me it's all about getting them to train within themselves and getting them to learn that there's a lot to gain from not smashing yourself," Mottram said. 

"I don't expect them to come to me for an hour and then to go home absolutely wrecked." 

Craig Mottram in action at the 2012 Olympics in London. Picture: Getty Images

Mottram has also spoken to the players about his vast experience in athletics, getting the players to understand the commitment needed to become an elite sportsman.

"You can only lean on your talent for so long. You still have to work on it and you still have to train hard," Mottram said. 

"It's important to educate them on that side of it and then get them to build good routines so when they progress throughout their careers they've got the foundation in place to continue to develop."

Ruckman Tom Campbell is one Bulldog who has found Mottram's sessions to be invaluable.

The club nominated Campbell as one of the players who has benefited most the training and Mottram endorsed that view, saying he has been impressed with the big man's leadership. 

Campbell said he has noticed a distinct improvement in not only his time-trial efforts, but also his in-game and training fitness. 

"I was able to build a really great rapport with Craig. He's a really personable guy and a fantastic coach," Campbell said.

"Craig saw me as someone who could push the other guys along and that's been really great for my development this pre-season. 

"Some of his stories about his competitions were incredible and you can really draw parallels between his races and our games, and having to dig deep to get the result."

Mottram's program has been deemed a success, following a recent review, and there is scope for him to do more work with the players through the season, next year and into the future.

The Bulldogs open their NAB Challenge campaign against Richmond at the Whitten Oval this Saturday afternoon at 4.40pm.