WALES’ World Cup conditioning training has begun under the watchful eye of fitness expert Paul Stridgeon, who has joined Warren Gatland’s team as head of physical performance.

The 34-year-old will combine the role with his job as head of strength and conditioning at European champions Toulon.

Stridgeon has previously working with England and was picked by Gatland to replace Adam Beard thanks to their time together with the British and Irish Lions in 2009 and 2013 and with Wasps.

He welcomed the initial batch of players to the national team’s Vale of Glamorgan headquarters on Monday and will put them through their paces at training camps in Switzerland and Qatar in July.

“Paul will be a huge asset to the national squad and I’m delighted that we have been able to secure his services,” said Gatland.

“I would like to thank the Welsh Rugby Union for their efforts in once again ensuring we have the strongest possible management team and I would also like to thank Toulon and in particular their president Mourad Boudjellal for his help and on-going assistance in creating this role, which I believe will benefit both sides.

“He is one of the best sports strength and conditioners around and his success in previous roles speaks for itself.

“I have been looking to bring Paul in for a number of years and his dedication, skill and expertise will be a huge benefit to us.

“He is well known to a number of players and will compliment the team and plans currently in place.”

Stridgeon, a colourful character, will take the lead in a department that includes assistant strength and conditioning coaches John Ashby and Huw Bennett, sports scientist Ryan Chambers, national academy strength and conditioning coach Mark Kilgallon and nutritionist Jon Williams

“It is fantastic to link up with Wales and return to the international game in what is a very exciting year,” he said.

“It is a very professional environment to come into, with state-of-the-art facilities, leading players and coaches and a history of great conditioning pedigree.

“I worked alongside many of the coaches and players with the British and Irish Lions, so have a good understanding of the environment.

“The physical performance department are very skilled and experienced and I’m looking forward to working alongside them.

“I would like to thank Toulon for this unique opportunity that will enable me to combine roles which I believe will have a great benefit for both teams.”