Essendon defender Jake Carlisle has taken a major step in his recovery from an ankle injury joining the main training session for the first time this pre-season on Wednesday.

Carlisle who injured his ankle in round 20 against Carlton said he was excited to be back on the track among his teammates.

“It feels good and the ankle is fine,” he said.

“The body gets a bit tight just from not doing the running I used to do.”

“I have done a lot of non weight bearing exercises such as bike and swims but it is a lot different when you get out there and you get a lot more puffed.”

Carlisle had a breakthrough season in 2012 being nominated for the NAB Rising Star award for his performances alongside veteran Dustin Fletcher in defence.

The 20-year-old said he has found the injury has given him more time to refresh heading into the 2013 season.

“It is very frustrating but at the same time I have had a good mental break with the ankle,” Carlisle said.

“Seeing the last few games of the year I wanted to be out there but it just makes you strive more for the next season.”

“I don’t want to rush into things in case something might happen again so I will just take it slow and once I get into it make sure I keep it strong.”