Kilometres of scorching black sand - welcome to the Blues' nightmare before Christmas.
Coach Tana Umaga made sure the team's last training before a two-week break was a tough one.
A full two-hour field session in the morning before taking on the infamous Bethells beach dunes, and it was no accident the climb was scheduled for the hottest part of the day.
Approaching his second year in charge of the franchise, Umaga was reluctant to make any big predictions for his team in 2017.
But judging by the intensity from players and coach at training, it will be a season defined by actions..
"Those that give as much as I can in training, earn the right to play," said Umaga. "Then they'll get the opportunity."
Sonny Bill Williams was a notable absentee as he recovers from achilles surgery.
He's not expected to be play until march at the earliest, with the fit-again Rene Ranger just one of the options to deputise at the second-five position.
"Michael Collins can play 12, also TJ Faiani looks like he's on track as well to come back in the new year hopefully."
The halfback options look more clear cut with two Test All Black Augustine Pulu making the move north from the Chiefs and looking forward to linking up with first-five Ihaia West.
"He's full of talent, he's a perfect 10 that can take us to some good results," said Pulu.
But before then the Blues will have a holiday break, and after today's efforts they might be waking up with sore calves as well as presents on Christmas morning.
Newshub.
