Adelaide’s playing list has some injuries and niggles but the club’s training staff are satisfied with the group’s overall condition leading into the second half of the season.

Although a number of senior players were rested this week, there was also positive news with long-term injured Nathan Bock, Darren Pfeiffer, Ben Hudson, Ian Perrie and Ben Hart increasing their activity levels.

Crows fitness assistant Paul Haines believes that the players are in fantastic shape.

“The general fitness of the players is great, we’re right where we want to be,” Haines said.

“At this point in the season it is critical to ensure that these (fitness) levels are maintained throughout the year. It is extremely important to use this break to get rid of any niggles or sore spots so that the players can consistently perform in the latter part of the season.”

According to Haines, the way the squad has committed to its fitness, rehabilitation, injury prevention and training has been particularly impressive.

“The work ethic and attention to detail for all aspects of playing and training has been spot on,” he said.

“The year so far has been much more demanding, both physically and mentally. This is why it is so important to take some time out this weekend and recover. Some of the boys are using this opportunity to go away for a couple of days to really freshen up.”

Also pleasing is the progress made by many of Adelaide’s long-term injured players.

Ruckman Hudson (knee) is now training with the main group and completing most drills after spending months limited to work indoors.

Bock (back) is easing into training and will resume with the main group next week.

Injured 300-gamer Hart (broken arm) is back running with the squad and is currently limited to modified skills.

And Perrie (knee) has also resumed running and is looking strong and fit.

Senior players such as Andrew McLeod, Ken McGregor, Brett Burton, Jason Torney and Tyson Edwards have enjoyed a lighter week to freshen up after what has been a gruelling first half of the season.