The GIANTS are thinking outside the square by taking their training inside the ring this pre-season.

The GIANTS have completed a three month boxing program led by Trent Simpson, an experienced boxing and conditioning coach.

The program culminated this week with a sparring session with players pairing up for two two-minute rounds.

Coach Leon Cameron said it was good to change up the training environment with the NAB Challenge only a fortnight away.

“There were a few nerves and a few butterflies as a lot of the guys haven’t done this sort of training,” said Cameron.

“It’s a different form of training. The fitness levels to be a boxer are quite phenomenal and the intensity that these guys that these guys face with the training we do on the ground, is totally different to when they’re in the ring.

“I think it’s been a really good three months of training.”

Young forward James Stewart, who was partnered up with ruckman Rory Lobb, said the whole playing group benefitted from the session.

“It’s quite controlled with the head gear on but we’ve been working on our boxing techniques and building up to proper sparring so it’s been very worthwhile,” said Stewart.

“With the taller guys, Trent has worked a lot on our footwork, our hand-eye co-ordination, timing, technique and knowing how to protect ourselves and then throw a punch as well.”

The GIANTS will hold their intra-club match next week at Tom Wills Oval on Wednesday with all members fans invited down from 9am.

The NAB Challenge gets underway for the GIANTS on Thursday, February 25 at Manuka Oval in Canberra against the Western Bulldogs with FREE entry for GIANTS members.