Sent to Utah in the United States with Brad McKenzie for some altitude training during his four week suspension, the Kangaroos’ vice-captain has been cramming as much fitness work in as possible in order to come back fitter and stronger.
“It’s been really tough and we’ve had an enormous first week,” Ziebell told kangaroos.com.au.
“It was actually 40 degrees in Salt Lake, but about 10 cooler up here in the mountains. The scenery is unbelievable but you don’t have much time to take it in when you’re gasping for air and pushing yourself to the limit.”
Ziebell says the past seven days have involved hiking up mountains and training at the United States Ski and Snowboard Association (USSA).
“We’ve been doing our own program at the USSA including running and weights but they’ve also introduced us to some O2 training which uses oxygen to help you recover quicker between high intensity exercise efforts.
“We go hard for about 10 to 15 minutes and then put the oxygen mask on to recover. The we do it all over again. It’s amazing how much the oxygen helps and we might have to get some on the bench during games I reckon,” Ziebell joked.
Park City and more specifically Deer Valley, where the boys are currently staying, is famous for skiing in winter, but right now Ziebell says mountain biking is all the rage.
“We can’t believe how many people there are doing it (mountain biking). They say it’s one of the best places in the world to do it.”
Not wanting to miss out, the 21-year old and his companion took the chance to experience a ride for themselves but got a little more than they’d bargained for.
“It’s not easy and I went over the handle bars once but I survived,” Ziebell said.
Looking to get straight back into the North Melbourne side when his suspension is lifted in Round 21, Ziebell says staying in touch is important and he and McKenzie have been doing plenty of skills.
“There’s a few ovals here so we’ve been having a good kick most days and working each other pretty hard. It’s great having Brad here because you get so much more out of it with a partner spurring you on.
“Brad struggled to get his breath the first few days with the altitude which is understandable…he was pretty puffed even just walking up a flight of stairs. As for me, it’s been a lot easier but it’s my third time here. I remember being like that (Brad) the first time.”
Ziebell has also been able to get his footy fix via the internet and says he’s delighted with the results so far.
“I think the boys have been brilliant. We’ve listened online and stayed up until two and three in the morning for the Richmond and Melbourne games.
“It sounds like they’re going pretty well so that just makes me want to go even harder over here and to make sure I have an impact when I get back.”
The pair fly out on Saturday and arrive in Melbourne Monday.
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