North Melbourne's players received a break from traditional training on Tuesday morning but had little time for rest. An early morning gym session at Arden Street and a taxing cycling time-trial was more than enough to push the pain barrier.

Dripping with perspiration, chin-ups and dips were also thrown in to the regime but the toughest test was still ahead.

Stepping back on to the bike for a second time the mission was clear: beat your first time. Some went close, while others excelled. Daniel Wells set the pace, while Jamie Macmillan was another stand-out performer.

Throw in medicine balls, a shorter sprint on the bike and a skills session, and North's strength and conditioning staff really made sure every player was leaving nothing in the tank.

Hamish McIntosh sweats it out

The North Melbourne boys push the pain barrier

Scott McMahon takes a breath

Liam Anthony giving it his all

Lindsay Thomas and Brent Harvey pushed to the limit

Jamie Macmillan was a stand-out performer

Straight onto the track for skills - Ayden Kennedy

Brent Harvey not to be slowed down