After battling oppressive heat and humidity in Townsville, one could be excused for thinking North Melbourne would struggle to back up this week. However nothing could be further from the truth according to Todd Goldstein.

An upbeat playing group was put through its paces in a three-hour training session on Wednesday and came through it with flying colours.

Speaking to NMFC.com.au, ruckman Goldstein said the conditions against the Gold Coast were 'probably the toughest the boys have every played in'.

Recovery in the Townsville weather actually started during the game itself.

"The extended breaks at quarter-time and three-quarter time helped. We went into the rooms, out of the heat so we were able to put ice vests on, cool towels and all that. Some blokes also jumped in a cold shower to help."

However after the final siren was when the real rehabilitation work began.

Led by the medical and sports science team, the players went through their routine with the aim  to be ready for Geelong.

"You've got to stick to what you normally do and maybe even a little bit extra. Make sure you're always moving, lots of physio time, massages and spending time in the ice baths," Goldstein explained.

Considering the lengthy training session, recovery has been carried out well by the 24 who took to the field last Saturday. However in an effort to leave no stone unturned, the players' dedication even extends to their own time.

"With the day off on Thursday, blokes will come in, get massages, see the physio's and continue their recovery. On Friday at our final training session, we'll all hit the ground running and feel really good.
"It's still pre-season so we're working very hard and you need to get that work into you."

On-field, Goldstein has a new competitor for the number one ruck position after the recruitment of Daniel Currie in the Draft last year.

Currie has impressed in the NAB Cup so far and the challenge from the former Swan has been embraced.

"The last few years we've had a number of injuries (to our rucks) so there hasn't been a lot of competition for spots. Having Dan in, he's really pushing me and keeping me at the top of my game. I can't afford any drop-offs."

Currie spent five years with Sydney before a season at North Adelaide, meaning he has played under two different game plans - experience Goldstein says is valuable out on the training track.

"It's always helpful having someone new that hasn't been in our system. When 'Russian' (Alex Ishchenko) and I look at things a bit differently, it's good to get Dan's opinion on things and see if he has any changes to what we do."

Ultimately the setup is working well in its early stages, but time will tell how it unfolds given North has only played one specialist ruckman for the majority of Brad Scott's tenure.

"You're always learning from everyone...he'll learn a lot from me and I'll learn a lot from the way he goes about things," Goldstein said.

"We keep each other on our toes."