Wilks Calculator

Category: Sports
- May 14, 2025
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Calculate your Wilks Score to compare powerlifting performances across different weight classes and genders. The Wilks Formula is used to standardise and compare powerlifting totals based on body weight.

Personal Information

kg

Lift Data

kg
kg
kg

Advanced Options

About the Wilks Formula

The Wilks Formula was developed by Robert Wilks for the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF). It allows for the comparison of powerlifting totals between lifters of different bodyweights and genders.

How It Works

The formula applies a coefficient based on bodyweight to the total weight lifted across the squat, bench press, and deadlift. This creates a standardised score that can be used to compare lifters regardless of their weight class.

Formula Versions
  • Wilks Formula (Classic): The original formula used since the 1990s.
  • Wilks 2.0 (Updated 2020): An updated version with revised coefficients.
  • IPF GL Points: The newer formula adopted by the IPF in 2019 to replace the Wilks formula.
  • DOTS: A more recent formula designed to better account for differences in body composition.
Performance Standards

General Wilks score standards (Classic Wilks) for men:

  • Beginner: < 200
  • Novice: 200-250
  • Intermediate: 250-300
  • Advanced: 300-350
  • Elite: > 350

General Wilks score standards (Classic Wilks) for women:

  • Beginner: < 150
  • Novice: 150-200
  • Intermediate: 200-250
  • Advanced: 250-300
  • Elite: > 300

Understanding the Wilks Calculator

The Wilks Calculator is a handy tool designed for powerlifters. It helps you determine your Wilks Score, allowing you to compare your lifts against others in different weight classes and genders. The calculator uses your body weight and the total weight lifted to create a standardised score. This way, you can see how you stack up against fellow lifters, no matter their size.

Why Use the Wilks Score?

The Wilks Score is beneficial for anyone involved in powerlifting. It levels the playing field by taking into account body weight. Here are some reasons to use the calculator:

  • Compare your performance with others.
  • Track your progress over time.
  • Identify areas for improvement in your lifts.

Getting Started with Personal Information

To use the Wilks Calculator, you start by entering your personal information. You’ll need to input your gender, body weight, and the unit of measurement you prefer (either kilograms or pounds). This information is crucial for accurate calculations, as it helps the tool tailor the results to your specific situation.

Input Your Lift Data

The next step involves entering your lift data. You can choose to input individual lifts, like your squat, bench press, and deadlift, or provide a total weight for all your lifts combined. This flexibility allows you to work with the method that best suits your lifting style and preferences.

Exploring Advanced Options

The Wilks Calculator also includes advanced options for users who want to dive deeper. You can select different versions of the Wilks formula, along with Other standard formulas used in powerlifting. Users can also adjust decimal places for their results. This customisation ensures you get the most relevant information based on your needs.

Understanding the Wilks Formula

The Wilks Formula itself is key to the calculator's function. It applies a mathematical equation that calculates the score using coefficients based on weight. The formula is structured as follows:

  • Wilks = Total × (500 / (a + b×x + c×x² + d×x³ + e×x⁴ + f×x⁵))
  • Where x is the lifter's bodyweight in kilograms.

Interpreting Your Results

After inputting your data, the calculator generates your Wilks Score along with other helpful Statistics, like your total lift weight and body weight. You’ll also see a performance level indicator ranging from beginner to elite. These results give you a clear picture of where you stand in relation to others in powerlifting.

Learn About the History of the Wilks Formula

The Wilks Formula was developed by Robert Wilks for the International Powerlifting Federation. Since its introduction, it has become a standard method for comparing lifters across varying weight classes. Over the years, the formula has seen updates and new versions to improve accuracy and fairness in competition settings.