Rugby places different physical demands on different positions, and this is reflected in what constitutes a good beep test score depending on where you play.
Scores by Position
Backs (Professional)
Wingers, centres and fullbacks are the most aerobically active players. At amateur level, 10 to 12 is strong for a back.
Front Row (Professional)
Front row demands are more intermittent and involve more static strength effort — scrums, lineouts, mauls.
Flankers / Number 8 (Professional)
Cover more ground than other forwards, scoring closer to backs.
Amateur / Club Level
Backs should target level 10 or above. Forwards should target level 9 or above.
Why Rugby Fitness Is Different
Rugby fitness demands are genuinely different from football or the beep test. Props spend large amounts of time in near-static scrummaging positions that require entirely different energy systems. The beep test does not capture this dimension of fitness. It is useful as one measure of aerobic base but is not sufficient on its own as a rugby fitness assessment.
For backs, beep test training is highly relevant. The repeated high intensity runs, direction changes and recovery patterns of the test closely mirror what a winger or centre experiences during match play.
For forwards, a strong beep test score is an asset — aerobic fitness supports recovery between scrums and carries — but should be balanced with strength and power work that the beep test does not address.
Training Considerations
The training plan in this site's guide is directly applicable for backs. Forwards should use weeks 1 to 3 of the plan alongside their strength work and reduce the shuttle intensity sessions if recovery becomes compromised.
Pre-season is the right time to build beep test scores. Attempting to improve aerobic fitness during the competitive season while maintaining match fitness and strength work is very difficult to manage without overtaxing the body.