AFL clubs are beginning to return from the Christmas break as all attention turns to the upcoming 2025 campaign.

While some sides are easing their way into it, both Hawthorn and the Western Bulldogs have put their players to the test with an earlier time trial.

The Hawks were seen splitting up into groups of seven or eight as the time ticked in the endurance test.

Veteran defender Karl Amon took out the crown following his efforts, narrowly pipping speedster Changkuoth Jiath.

Josh Weddle, Finn Maginness and star recruit Josh Battle can be seen trailing the leaders.

On the other side of the bay, the Bulldogs were also put to the test, welcomed back to Whitten Oval with a 2km time trial.

Youngster Joel Freijah took out the win but was accompanied by midfield pair Marcus Bontempelli and Ryley Sanders.

West Coast and Sydney were also put through their paces as their resumption to training began with a time trial.

Essendon returned in the Melbourne heat with an endurance test, with draftee Angus Clarke dominating the 2km time trial.

Port Adelaide returned to the track but was on light duties, putting together a 45-minute block of skills as the players prepare themselves for a big session on Friday.

Richmond also took it easy at Punt Road on Thursday as the club reunites following the Christmas break.

Tiger utility Noah Balta was seen at the club following his four-game suspension for his off-season assault charge.

North Melbourne and Melbourne also returned to the track after their break as did Fremantle, who will be without veteran pair Nat Fyfe and Michael Walters for the next few weeks due to their respective knee injuries.

West Coast put their best foot forward in their first session of the new year.

The Eagles welcomed delisted St Kilda defender James Van Es to the club for a pre-season training opportunity.