Differences in Physical Fitness Among Chinese National-Team Male Rugby Sevens Players by Position and Sprint Performance

Background: Rugby sevens demands distinct physical profiles across positions. This study investigated anthropometric and physical fitness characteristics of Chinese national team male rugby sevens players. Methods: Twenty-one players (forwards: n = 10, backs: n = 11) completed anthropometric measurements, linear sprints (10 m, 40 m, 50 m, and 60 m), agility tests (T-test, Illinois, 20 shuttle run), Wingate anaerobic test, Yo-Yo intermittent recovery test level 2, goalpost shuttle run, vital capacity, and VO2peak. Players were split into fast/slow groups by median 40 m time. Results: Forwards were significantly taller (adjusted p = 0.0022, d = 2.78), heavier (adjusted p = 0.0073, d = 1.76), and had greater muscle mass (adjusted p = 0.027, d = 1.47) with large effect sizes compared with backs. Backs showed significantly better agility with large effect sizes (Illinois: adjusted p = 0.018, d = 2.00). When players were classified into fast and slow sprint groups by median 40 m time, the fast group exhibited significantly better 10 m (adjusted p = 0.04, d = −2.00), 50 m (adjusted p = 0.017, d = −1.98), and 60 m (adjusted p = 0.017, d = −1.71) performance. Conclusion: Playing positions in Chinese rugby sevens present significantly different body size and agility profiles. When grouped by sprint speed, faster players possess superior multi-distance sprinting capacities. Both positional and sprint capabilities should guide training and selection.