Some of the Brisbane Lions players claim that getting your breath back at high altitude after a solid training hit-out is like trying to suck air through a straw.

So you can only imagine how tough it was for the team to be put through a gruelling sprint program at Flagstaff on Wednesday.

Strength and Conditioning Coach Matt Hass told LIONS TV that the session was the most difficult of the camp so far.

“We did an extremely hard running session today – maybe the hardest one they’ll do on the camp. It was a little over 12km,” Hass said.

“I’m really impressed with how the boys went – some young guys really challenged the older boys.

“We had our typical standouts with Joel Patfull and Jack Redden, but also had Closey (Michael Close), Paps (Marco Paparone) and Sammy Michael pushing up as well.

“I’ve been rapt with the way they’ve attacked each session, so we’re expecting big improvements.

“Once we get back to Brisbane we really should be flying.”

Hass’ comments were echoed by a couple of the senior Lions players who were impressed with how the team overcame the adversity.

“The Boys were awesome today – 100's, 300's & 1km's,” Daniel Merrett (@Merrett21) Tweeted.

“HUUUUGE Session Today! Standouts Close, Patfull, Michael & Zorko. Well done Lads #BringOn2014,” Tweeted Brent Moloney (@Beamnation3)