The Fremantle forward broke his jaw attempting to tackle Sydney’s Ted Richards in the Qualifying Final.
It was the second time this season he had hurt his jaw after a round eight injury against Port Adelaide.
Ballantyne said he’d already spoken to senior coach Ross Lyon about changing his technique.
“Ross spoke to me about trying to protect myself a little bit more, not leading head-first,” he said.
“But you’re not allowed to bump, so you have to go in and tackle.
“I’m a bit shorter than most guys, I’m at shoulder height to a lot of players.
“I have to work on it and try and stop breaking my jaw.”
Ballantyne said he was fully recovered now and participating in full contact drills in pre-season training.
“I’m feeling good, there are a lot of boys out there running really well,” he said.
“It’s good that all the boys came back in good shape and are ready for a big pre-season and a big season.”
The livewire forward said the pre-season had so far been tough, just as Lyon had said it would be on Doig Medal night.
“Each year it has got a bit more intense,” Ballantyne said.
“Jason Weber, our head fitness person, he’s lifted the intensity on us.
“It’s hurting a bit at training but we’re all going to be fitter for it. We’re loving it.”
Ballantyne enjoyed his best season of AFL in 2014, booting a career-best 49 goals and being named in the All Australian team as a forward pocket.
He said the key to maintaining his good play and improving further was to keep doing what has worked for him.
“Keep the same methods, the same processes and just try and improve,” Ballantyne said.
“I can always get fitter and stronger, just like everyone else, so I’ll be working just as hard as anyone else.”
As for 2015, Ballantyne said he was keen to spend a whole season playing with Michael Walters in Freo’s forward line.
“I love playing with the little fella, even though I’m shorter than him,” he said.
“I love playing with him, he’s a great player.
“Everyone knows how good he is, so I can’t wait to get out there with him.”
