SYDNEY Swans ruckman Kurt Tippett looks on track for a return before the finals after stepping up his running program at training on Tuesday.

Tippett, who hasn't played since the Swans' round 12 loss to Greater Western Sydney after suffering a hamstring injury that required surgery, remains on the long term injury list, and is expected to be back in round 22.

The 29-year-old pushed towards full pace during a series of extended running drills at the SCG, before working on some agility exercises and low intensity ball work under the watchful eye of the Swans' fitness staff.

Young ruckman Sam Naismith has assumed the number one ruck role in Tippett's absence, but the former Crows' return would make a significant difference to the Swans' side, especially with his ability to also play as a dangerous key forward.

The rest of the Swans' senior side had a light session, with gun young forward Isaac Heeney and co-captain Jarrad McVeigh among those who barely raised a sweat.

Heeney kicked four goals against Fremantle on Sunday in arguably his best game of the season, and looked sharp after being managed in round 16 due to knee soreness, and playing in the NEAFL the following week.

McVeigh said Heeney was in fantastic condition at the right time of the year.

"With his partnership with 'Bud' (Lance Franklin) up there, he provides that 'x' factor," he said.

"He's good overhead for his size and to kick four on the weekend was really good for his confidence.

"That break has done him wonders.

"I think he'll go (into the) midfield in the next few years, and he's had a few stints in there over the last couple of weeks to get around the ball a bit more and to add a few more strings to his bow."

Heeney isn't the only young Swan in impressive form, with Naismith providing a strong presence in the ruck and deep forward, and key defender Aliir Aliir outstanding against the Dockers.

The Swans have had seven players make their debuts in 2016, with even McVeigh admitting that number had surprised him, but he said the way inexperienced teammates such as Aliir had performed at senior level hadn't been a shock.

"His first couple of games he was in and out so he didn't get a chance to show his marking ability, and it was wet those as well," he said.

"His composure with the ball is an area we've seen him grow over the last few weeks and he's going to be a strong, 10-year player for us.

"The way they trained over the pre-season to really stamp themselves on the competition and our team this year has been fantastic.

"For the older, more experienced players to have that youth come into the team, it gives you a sense of pride and also makes you want to achieve something with these kids as well."