For second-year, high-performance coach and former Olympian Adam Basil, the results are extremely pleasing. "I guess from our perspective it shows that the players have bought into the program and obviously you understand that it just boils down to hard work to achieve the results," Basil said on Saturday.

The ex-sprinter believes there is no substitute for hard work on the training track.

"We've got a young list, and developing that list from a conditioning perspective takes time but off the back of last year's block, and leading into this year, it's certainly consolidated a lot."

"Essentially game day should become the easy part."

Volume running has been the name of the game at the Saints, and players at both ends of the age spectrum are embracing the program. Veterans Sam Fisher and Leigh Montagna were both among the group that bettered their previous records.

"Leigh and Sam are outstanding. I think that just reflects their professionalism," Basil said.

"They've been in the AFL for a long time and they understand that they need to keep on top of their fitness levels but also to set that standard for the younger guys coming through."

Basil also made special mention of younger Saints Jack Newnes, Eli Templeton, Jack Billings, Tom Lee and Daniel Markworth, all of whom had impressed. But it is the step up across the board from which he derives most satisfaction.  "There's a whole group. I think that's the pleasing part for myself and the coaching staff - is that collectively as a group there's been a big shift."

Basil believes that the two-kilometre distance, rather than the three kilometres used by some clubs, is the ideal preparation for the modern game. Many of the Saints' squad who did not run last week due to managed workloads will do so early in the new year, as St Kilda builds towards its opening round clash with GWS.