INTRODUCTION: Rugby union and rugby sevens are demanding and intermittent team sports with collisions, high intensity runs interspaced with periods of low intensity activity. While the physical characteristics development of elite male rugby union and rugby seven players have been widely described, much less is known about female international players. This present study aims to assess physical changes over time of women`s rugby union players (backs and forwards) and women`s seven players. METHODS: Anthropometric and physical performance of French rugby union and seven women players were monitored at least two times per years by the French Rugby Federation. The best performance of each French international player over a two-year period was identified. Finally, a total of six hundred and thirty-one samples was obtained. Anthropometric data (height, mass and fat mass), physical performance (10, 20 and 50m sprint, maximal aerobic speed, counter movement Jump test, maximal bench press and rowing repetition) were monitored. RESULTS: Specific evolution of anthropometric characteristics and physical performances was observed within rugby union positions and rugby seven. Rugby union forwards improved their sprint ability (10m, 20m and 50m) regularly from 2009 to 2020 (p<0.01) while body weight, body fat and age did not change over the years. Height, maximal aerobic speed, counter movement jump, maximal bench press and rowing repetition increased over the years (p=<0.01). Rugby union backs have improved their sprint ability (10m, 20m, 50m), maximal aerobic sped, counter movement jump, maximal rowing repetition increased over the years (p=<0.01). The anthropometric characteristics evolved and the players become taller and increased their weight (p<0.05). Seven players improved their explosivity (10m, p<0.05), maximal aerobic speed, maximal bench press and rowing repetition increased over the years while the speed over 20m and 50m, and the counter movement jump performances remained unchanged. The anthropometric characteristics evolved and the players become taller and lighter (p<0.05). CONCLUSION: These results highlight the evolution of the woman rugby player profile over the last decade. It suggests that the coaches should adapt the references values used to identify or developed talent over the years.
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