A 10-year analysis of the bronco fitness test in male and female super rugby athletes: The effect of sex and positional group

The Bronco fitness test is a commonly used assessment of high-intensity running capacity. This study aimed to (1) analyse 10 years of Bronco fitness testing data from male and female Super Rugby athletes by sex and positional group, and (2) develop practical percentile thresholds. Bronco test data were retrospectively analysed from 462 elite rugby athletes (303 males, 159 females), totalling 1668 observations. Athletes were grouped by sex and positional groups. Linear mixed-effects models were used to assess differences, with Cohen’s d effect sizes calculated. Percentile thresholds were derived from model outputs. Males completed the Bronco significantly faster than females (5:11 ± 00:02 vs. 6:19 ± 00:03 mins:secs; p < 0.001; d = 1.78). Backs outperformed forwards in both sexes (male: 4:57 ± 00:02 vs. 5:21 ± 00:02; d = 1.09; female: 5:52 ± 00:06 vs. 6:38 ± 00:05; d = 0.98). Among males, Halves were the fastest positional group, while the Back 3 were fastest among females. Front Rowers consistently recorded the slowest times. Greater performance variability was observed in the female cohort, potentially reflecting the continued development of the female game. These findings provide normative data and percentile thresholds to guide profiling, conditioning, and long-term athlete development. Practitioners are encouraged to use these benchmarks to inform position-specific training and performance targets. The percentile tables and positional benchmarks presented can support practitioners and sport scientists in evaluating high-intensity running capacity, setting development goals, and tailoring conditioning programs for male and female Super Rugby athletes.