Gold Coast SUNS players managed to find time away from the field to enjoy a stress-free body balance workout as part of their busy pre-season training program.

Russell Butler spearheaded the 45-minute session. The club’s Body Balance Instructor, was pleased with what he saw from the playing group; who were all taken through their paces with what turned out to be a class filled with yoga, platies, core movements and relaxation techniques.

Butler says the sessions provide a fantastic opportunity for those players wanting to take a moment away from the team environment that flows through the GC SUNS training facilities.

"In any team sport, every activity an athlete does is team focused; in here they have something to do for themselves individually."

With the team still feeling the effects following their gruelling altitude camp in Arizona, Butler believes the class assists the player’s recovery and preparation for what is expected to be their most competitive season yet.

While some of the GC SUNS players have proven they can stand up in big-pressure moments, in particularly Karmichael Hunt when he last year made national headlines for his winning after-the-siren goal against Richmond last season, Butler is confident the sessions will help enhance the development of the GC SUNS’, using the example of a young forward faced with the task of kicking for goal.

"Although it is very much a non-stop game, there are a few moments where mental strength is needed."

“Whether it might be a kick-in or set shot for goal, players need to be able to control their energy and anxiety levels; body balance aims to assist in their mental training so that they can focus and block out distractions.”

Following the session players were quick to credit Butler, saying they could already feel more flexibility through their hips and legs.

The GC SUNS will continue to use similar recovery workouts next year, with Butler saying the club would also be including core and gymnastic exercises at the end of each training weeks.