Essendon has ramped up its preparations for 2022 with a match simulation session.

The Bombers were split into two teams and put through four 25-minute quarters, with a host of players swapping sides and a select few playing in various positions.

Before and after the match simulation, both teams were put through running blocks to ensure a punishing session was endured as the club eyes its first competitive hit-out against the Western Bulldogs in two weeks' time.

See a gallery of today's training below.