LANCE Franklin and Kurt Tippett have been boxing in order to build their fitness as they prepare to re-join the Sydney Swans' main training group in January. 
 
The dynamic duo have been on similar programs pre-Christmas as they prepare for 2015 getting miles into their legs to build a solid foundation before increasing their load in the new year. 
 
Franklin had a sensational first season at his new club and was one of the team's few performers on Grand Final day, when the Swans were thrashed by Hawthorn to the tune of 63 points. He kicked 79 goals in his 22 games while Tippett managed 34 goals in 14 games. 
 
Swans' physiotherapist Tim Needham said the club had a number of experienced players, including dual Brownlow medallist Adam Goodes and premiership teammates Mike Pyke, Sam Reid and Craig Bird, due to join the main group in January. 
 
Goodes, who turns 35 on January 8, and Pyke, 30, began training later than the main group but are progressing well. 
 
"Those guys are working together down in the gym on the off-legs equipment and are also doing some running," Needham told the club’s website.
 
Reid and Bird both had post-season arthroscopes to fix minor knee issues but are back running. Needham said the pair were also in line for a January return.
 
Lloyd Perris has returned to skills training as he recovers from a knee reconstruction while mature rookie Nic Newman has suffered a knee injury and won't resume training until late January. 
 
"Nic unfortunately had to undergo some minor knee surgery, just an arthroscopy to his knee," Needham said.

Ripped Tipp: Kurt Tippett wearing his six-pack well during the pre-season. Picture: Getty Images