Lions wing Shane Williams says he is feeling fresh and ‘ready to go’ a fortnight out from the new season.
Williams enjoyed his first summer off in recent years as he was rested from Wales’ two-Test tour of New Zealand.
And while the 33-year-old admits it wasn’t easy watching his country lose to the All Blacks, he admits that the down time has done him a great deal of good.
"I've had time to reflect as well and get myself fit," Williams, who featured in his second Lions tour last year and is now targeting a third World Cup in 2011, told the BBC.
"It's probably the only pre-season I've had for about seven years so I'm feeling fresh and ready to go.
"I was disappointed not to have gone on tour in the summer and there's nothing worse than watching your fellow players out there and playing against a very good New Zealand side. It was quite painful to watch on telly, but personally it's done me the world of good."
Williams struggled with a shoulder injury last season but he is confident he can now put that setback behind him and recapture the form that saw him crowned IRB World Player of the Year in 2008.
"I've had time to work on my shoulder – it plagued me all season – work on my fitness and make sure I'm right for a massive season this year.
"I'd like to think that I'm actually ahead of schedule and I'm looking forward to it.
"I'm ready to go. There's only so much fitness and speed training you can do.
"I said that to the Ospreys and Welsh coaches that I want to be 100% fit – as fit as I've ever been – because I know how much of a season it is, providing I am selected for Wales and can get to that World Cup.
"I hope I can get through the season, stay away from any injuries and enjoy myself."
