NICK Riewoldt will not return to full training at Linen House Centre until the new year as he spends an extended break in the USA.

Riewoldt is currently in Texas, home of wife Catherine, where he has spent his off-season break for the past few years.

The St Kilda captain will embark on a strict recovery and training program devised by the club, which he will follow until his return to Melbourne.

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St Kilda coach Alan Richardson said the club endorsed Riewoldt’s extended break ahead of what will be his 16^th season in the AFL system.

“As has been the case for a few years now, Nick has an extended post-season break in America,” Richardson said.

“He has obviously had a very challenging year so this off-season he has been granted some additional time away with family and to freshen up both physically and mentally.”

Richardson said the arrangement would not mean a big change to Riewoldt’s usual preparation.

“Traditionally, Nick doesn’t run until Christmas anyway and he will conduct his recovery and rehabilitation sessions overseas,” he said.

“He is an extremely professional athlete and has a strict program tailored specifically for him so we are very confident he will return ready to go for the season. He will return to full training at Linen House Centre in early January.”