The 43-year-old has teamed up with his first trainer, Pat Connolly at the California Gully-based gym to prepare for another title shot.

It's not just about striking the pads and heavy bags.

Since the boxing champion put his 195cm frame through the gym's entrance again in November he has dedicated plenty of time to the fitness program drawn up by Gary Connolly.

Whitehead said increasing business and family commitments led to giving boxing away after his national title victory in August, 2010.

"The business was the priority," he said of those early years running Golden Square Chicken and Seafood.

"It takes a lot of training to get to the standard I was boxing."

He said being able to strike a balance for family, work and his sport was difficult, but now far more achievable for him, partner Sarah and their families.

"It's step-by-step, but everything is going well so far," he said of workouts at the gym and cycling.

"Preparation is the key to success," said Whitehead.

"I have a great team around me," he said of the support from the Connolly brothers, and from Olympic and Commonwealth Games boxer Lynden Hosking.

Whitehead said the next significant step would be sparring as he aims toward a bout in mid-2015.

Since his boxing career hit off in 1996, Whitehead has racked up a 36-20 record in the amateurs, fought at the Commonwealth Games, and is unbeaten in five bouts on the pro circuit.

His feats earned multiple month wins through the 50-year history of the Bendigo Bank Bendigo Advertiser-Prime 7 Sports Star of the Year award.

Long-time boxing trainer Pat Connolly said Whitehead's fierce determination was a key factor in his success.

"He is dedicated to hard work. Justin's always being willing to learn and put in the extra effort to improve.

"His workrate would give any coach a lift.

"Through dedication and determination you can accomplish anything. Justin has proved that and wants to achieve more."

Some of Whitehead's workouts at the gym were alongside Bendigo cycling star Zak Dempster as he worked toward another big road season.

The Tour de France cyclist gave Whitehead his mountain bike and tips for training rides on his bie.

The team at Bike Force have chipped in with tune-ups or bike repairs.

"It's been a while, but it's great to be back here again," Whitehead said as he leant on the ropes around the ring at Connollys boxing gym.