Wilks Score Calculator
Calculate your Wilks score to compare powerlifting strength across different body weights.
Used in competitive powerlifting worldwide.
Wilks Formula:
Wilks Score = Total (kg) × Coefficient
The Wilks coefficient is calculated from body weight using a 5th-degree polynomial:
Coefficient = 500 / (a + bx + cx² + dx³ + ex⁴ + fx⁵)
Where:
- x = your body weight in kilograms
- Total = the sum of your best squat, bench press, and deadlift in kilograms
- a, b, c, d, e, f = constants that differ for male and female lifters. These were determined by Robert Wilks through statistical analysis of competition results.
The polynomial in the denominator creates a curve that accounts for the natural relationship between body weight and strength. Heavier lifters can lift more in absolute terms, but the Wilks coefficient normalizes this so a lighter lifter’s relative strength can be fairly compared to a heavier lifter’s.
Practical Example: A male lifter weighing 82 kg (181 lbs) with lifts of: Squat: 180 kg, Bench: 120 kg, Deadlift: 220 kg Total: 520 kg The Wilks coefficient at 82 kg is approximately 0.728. Wilks = 520 x 0.728 = 378.6 (Intermediate level)
Compare this to a 60 kg lifter totaling 400 kg: coefficient is approximately 0.946. Wilks = 400 x 0.946 = 378.4 — nearly identical despite a 120 kg difference in totals.
What makes a good Wilks score?
| Score | Level | Typical Context |
|---|---|---|
| 200-300 | Beginner-Novice | First year of training |
| 300-400 | Intermediate | 2-4 years of consistent training |
| 400-450 | Advanced | Competitive at regional meets |
| 450-500 | Elite | National-level competitor |
| 500+ | World class | International competition level |
Note on DOTS: The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) replaced Wilks with the DOTS system in 2019 for official competitions. However, Wilks is still widely used in many federations and by lifters tracking personal progress. Both systems serve the same purpose — comparing strength across body weights.
Tips:
- Use competition-standard lifts (paused bench, below-parallel squat) for accurate scores
- Track your Wilks over time to measure strength gains independent of body weight changes
- The Wilks formula is most accurate for body weights between 50 kg and 150 kg