Wilks Calculator
Calculate official powerlifting Wilks coefficients and scores (Classic Wilks & Wilks 2020) for men and women across squat, bench, and deadlift.
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What Is a Wilks Calculator?
The Wilks Calculator computes the Wilks coefficient and Wilks score, a standardized powerlifting formula created by Robert Wilks to compare the relative strength of powerlifters across different bodyweight categories and genders.
How to Use This Calculator
- Select your gender (Male or Female) and units (kg or lbs).
- Choose formula version: Classic Wilks (500-point base) or Wilks 2020 (600-point base).
- Enter your bodyweight and total weight lifted across Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift.
- View your Wilks coefficient, normalized score, and competitive ranking classification.
Wilks Polynomial Equation
\text{Coeff} = \frac{500}{a + bx + cx^2 + dx^3 + ex^4 + fx^5}, \quad \text{Wilks Score} = \text{Total (kg)} \times \text{Coeff}Where x is bodyweight in kilograms and a, b, c, d, e, f are gender-specific 5th-degree polynomial coefficients.
Worked Example
Scenario: An 80 kg male powerlifter with a 500 kg three-lift total
Lifter bodyweight: x = 80 kg.
Male polynomial denominator: a + b(80) + c(80²) + d(80³) + e(80⁴) + f(80⁵) = 732.38.
Wilks coefficient: 500 / 732.38 = 0.68270.
Wilks score: 500 kg × 0.68270 = 341.35.
Tips & Key Notes
- Classic Wilks scores are scaled to a 500-point standard, while Wilks 2020 scores use a 600-point scale (~20% higher numbers).
- For single-lift competitions (e.g. bench press only), multiply your single lift by the coefficient.
- A Wilks score above 400 is generally considered regional/state championship caliber.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is considered a good Wilks score?
For men: 300+ is competitive at local meets, 400+ is advanced/regional level, 450+ is national level, and 500+ is elite world-class. For women, similar relative benchmarks apply.
What is the difference between Classic Wilks and Wilks 2020?
Classic Wilks (1997) uses a 500-point numerator. Wilks 2020 uses updated regression coefficients with a 600-point numerator, resulting in scores approximately 20% higher.
Does the Wilks formula work for single lifts like bench press only?
While primarily designed for the full three-lift total (Squat + Bench + Deadlift), it is frequently applied to bench-only or push-pull competitions using the single lift weight.
How does Wilks compare to DOTS and IPF GL points?
DOTS and IPF GL points are modern alternatives developed to address mathematical flattening at extreme bodyweights. Many federations use DOTS today, but Wilks remains the most recognized historical standard.
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