The soul of a volleyball team is the setter. Feng Kun and Wei Qiuyue train under the guidance of coach Chen Zhonghe.

Chen said the setter in China's women's team is at a disadvantage since the veterans have been absent for a long time due to injuries and the newer players lack experience.

Besides technical training, players are doing strength exercises everyday.

This weight-lifting exercise is to increase leg strength. The coach said he plans to step up the intensity of the training gradually so as to get the players into top form for the Games.

Chen Zhonghe said "The team is very exhausted since the recent Grand Prix tournament lasted more than a month. The players haven't recovered their best form. But after a few more days, with intensive and regular training, they'll get better."

30-year-Feng Kun is considered one of the best setters in the world. She also has great influence on her teammates. She made a comeback earlier this year after recovering from surgery in 2007. She's now doing an extra 30 minutes of strength and balance exercises after the normal sessions finish.

Feng Kun, player of Chinese Women's Volleyball Team said "I am doing a lot of exercises these days. Since the Games are approaching, I hope I can prepare myself and get my body in good shape."

It won't be easy for the Chinese team to retain their Olympic title this time around since Brazil, Cuba, Italy, the United States and Russia are also all thought to have a shot at the gold.

China's final squad has been named, and includes seven veterans of the Athens Olympics.

(CCTV July 31, 2008)