Tony Burman is determined to maintain Dartford’s reputation as one of the fittest sides in non-league football.

Despite finding themselves in a minority of part-time clubs in Conference Premier, the Darts kept pace with their full-time opponents throughout last season.

Burman praised the condition of his players when they reported for pre-season last weekend but he will continue to work them hard.

He said: “It was a good first day back. The players do look after themselves but you still have to get them back into it. They came back in decent shape.

“We were a reasonably fit side (last season) and that’s through us and the guys looking after themselves. Our training schedule is what we feel is right for the players and I felt we weren’t far off being the fittest side last year.”

Dartford’s six new signings were among 22 players who reported for the first training session of the summer.

It is almost 11 weeks since the final game of last season and Burman has enjoyed the break from football.

He said: “I’ve not missed it but I’m looking forward to getting the guys fit and organised. Hopefully, we come through pre-season without injuries and a fully-fit squad.”