Wilks Score Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the wilks score calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Use the Wilks Score Calculator

Formulas Used

Wilks Score

wilks_score = round(total_kg * coeff * 100) / 100

Total in Pounds

total_lbs = round(total_kg * 2.20462)

Body Weight in Pounds

bw_lbs = round(body_weight_kg * 2.20462 * 10) / 10

Total / Body Weight

total_to_bw = round(total_kg / body_weight_kg * 100) / 100

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
body_weight_kgBody Weight(kg)82
total_kgPowerlifting Total(kg)500
genderGender1
coeffDerived value= 500 / (gender * (-216.0475144 + 16.2606339 * body_weight_kg - 0.002388645 * pow(body_weight_kg, 2) - 0.00113732 * pow(body_weight_kg, 3) + 0.00000701863 * pow(body_weight_kg, 4) - 0.00000001291 * pow(body_weight_kg, 5)) + (1 - gender) * (594.31747775582 - 27.23842536447 * body_weight_kg + 0.82112226871 * pow(body_weight_kg, 2) - 0.00930733913 * pow(body_weight_kg, 3) + 0.00004731582 * pow(body_weight_kg, 4) - 0.00000009054 * pow(body_weight_kg, 5)))calculated

How It Works

What the Wilks Score Measures

The Wilks score lets you compare powerlifting totals across body weights. A 148-lb lifter totaling 1,000 lbs and a 220-lb lifter totaling 1,300 lbs can't be compared directly. The Wilks coefficient adjusts for body weight so you get a single number that works across weight classes.

The Formula

Wilks Score = Total Lifted x Coefficient

The coefficient comes from a polynomial equation based on your body weight. Lighter lifters get a higher coefficient (their lifts are worth more pound-for-pound). Heavier lifters get a lower one. The exact polynomial has different constants for men and women.

How to Read Your Score

ScoreLevel Under 200Beginner 200-300Intermediate 300-400Advanced 400-450Elite 450+World-class

A score of 300 means you're competitive at a local level. 400+ puts you in the running at national meets. The all-time records are in the 500-600 range.

When to Use This

Comparing your strength to lifters at different body weights. Tracking your progress over time if your body weight changes. Deciding which weight class to compete in. Some meets use Wilks to determine best overall lifter across all classes.

Wilks vs. DOTS vs. IPF GL

The Wilks formula was created in the 1990s and some federations have moved to newer coefficients. DOTS and IPF GL both claim to be more accurate at extreme body weights (very light or super-heavy). For most recreational and competitive lifters between 130-275 lbs, the scores are similar. If your federation uses a specific formula, use that one.

Common Mistakes

  • Using your body weight in the wrong unit. The formula expects kilograms. If you enter pounds, the coefficient will be wrong.
  • Entering individual lift maxes instead of your total. Wilks uses your competition total (squat + bench + deadlift combined).
  • Comparing Wilks scores between raw and equipped lifting. Equipped totals are higher, so the scores aren't comparable across equipment categories.

    • Worked Example

    An 82 kg male lifter with a 500 kg powerlifting total.

    body_weight_kg = 82total_kg = 500gender = 1
    1. 01Apply the Wilks polynomial for male at 82 kg
    2. 02Wilks coefficient is approximately 0.679
    3. 03Wilks score = 500 * 0.679 = 339.5
    4. 04This is a competitive recreational-to-regional level score

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is a good Wilks score?

    A Wilks score above 300 is respectable, 400+ is competitive nationally, and 500+ is world class. Most dedicated recreational lifters score 250-350.

    Is the Wilks score fair across all weight classes?

    The Wilks formula slightly favors middle weight classes. The DOTS score was created as an updated alternative to address some of these issues.

    Does the Wilks score apply to single lifts?

    It is designed for the powerlifting total (squat + bench + deadlift) but can be applied to individual lifts for comparison purposes.

    Ready to run the numbers?

    Open Wilks Score Calculator