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Rugby Union v Rugby 7s

Rugby 7s is the newer faster version of rugby union which is becoming more and more popular. It may require greater speed, but what else differentiates these two sports. The following comparison will determine which sport requires a greater level of all round athleticism and other factors of success. The winner is based on head to head comparisons on a number of important factors of success in sport, as rated by you (see how the winners are calculated). To add your own rating, see the factors of success for Rugby Union and Rugby 7s.



Rugby sevens players are faster and more agile, but not necessarily more skillful

For each of the factors below, people have rated them between 1 (for not important) up to 5 (very important). As you can see, although there are some similarities between the two rugby versions, people have rated differently for many of these factors. What is the most important factor for one sport may not necessarily be the most important for the other.

For most of the components listed below, rugby sevens has the upper hand. Only skill and tactics were rated higher in rugby union compared to rugby 7s, while speed and agility were much higher in rugby 7s. As ratings are still being made, these comparisons may change over time.

Factors of Success Rugby Union Rugby 7s
Body Size and Composition Body size includes height, lengths and girths. Composition refers to the distribution of muscle and fat in the body.
Aerobic Endurance also known as cardiovascular fitness and stamina, is the ability to exercise continuously for extended periods without tiring
Strength & Power Strength is the ability to exert a maximal force, and Power is to do this in as short a time as possible, as in accelerating, jumping and throwing implements.
Speed / Quickness the ability to move quickly across the ground or move limbs rapidly to grab or throw
Flexibility the capacity of a joint to move through its full range of motion, which is important for execution of the techniques of sports
Agility the ability to quickly change body position or direction of the body
Balance & Coordination the ability to stay upright or stay in control of body movement is an important component of many sports skills
Reaction Time the ability to respond quickly to a stimulus
Analytic & Tactical Ability the ability of the mental system to evaluate and react to strategic situations (tactical ability)
Motivation & Self Confidence a motivated and focused athlete, with a level of belief in themselves, often seen as arrogance in athletes
Coping with Pressure Situations the ability to stay focused and perform up to expectations while under increasing pressure, and under changing conditions
Skill and Technique the specific skill set and technique required to be successful in a particular sport.


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