Question 1

What is the Wilks score in powerlifting?

Accepted Answer

The Wilks score (or Wilks coefficient) is a formula developed in 1994 to compare powerlifting totals across different bodyweights. It calculates a normalized score that allows fair comparison between lifters of different weights. A higher Wilks score indicates greater relative strength. The Wilks formula was the international standard from 1994-2020, before being replaced by DOTS.

Question 2

How is the Wilks score calculated?

Accepted Answer

Wilks is calculated using a polynomial formula: Wilks Score = Total Lifted (kg) × Wilks Coefficient. The Wilks coefficient is determined by: 500 / (a + b×BW + c×BW² + d×BW³ + e×BW⁴ + f×BW⁵), where BW is bodyweight in kg and a, b, c, d, e, f are gender-specific constants. Male and female lifters use different coefficient sets to account for physiological differences in strength-to-weight ratios.

Question 3

What is a good Wilks score?

Accepted Answer

Wilks score benchmarks: Beginner: 250-300, Novice: 300-350, Intermediate: 350-400, Advanced: 400-450, Elite: 450-500, World Class: 500+. For context, a 400 Wilks score puts you in the top 5% of powerlifters globally. Male elite lifters typically score 450+, while female elite lifters score 400+. World record holders often exceed 550 Wilks.

Question 4

What is the difference between Wilks and DOTS?

Accepted Answer

Wilks and DOTS are both coefficient-based formulas for comparing strength across weight classes. Wilks was developed in 1994 and was the standard until 2020. DOTS (introduced in 2020) was created to address limitations in Wilks, which became less accurate for very light (<52kg) and very heavy (>120kg) lifters. DOTS uses updated competition data and provides better statistical fit across all bodyweight ranges. Many federations now use DOTS, though Wilks is still used in some federations and for historical comparisons.

Question 5

How do I improve my Wilks score?

Accepted Answer

To improve your Wilks score: 1) Increase your total (squat + bench + deadlift) through progressive overload training, 2) Focus on weak points and implement periodization, 3) Optimize bodyweight - sometimes gaining or losing weight can improve your score, 4) Work with a coach for technique refinement, 5) Ensure adequate nutrition (1.6-2.2g protein per kg) and recovery (7-9 hours sleep), 6) Compete regularly to test maxes in competition conditions.

Question 6

Does bodyweight affect Wilks score?

Accepted Answer

Yes, bodyweight significantly affects Wilks score. The Wilks coefficient adjusts based on bodyweight - lighter lifters get higher coefficients, while heavier lifters get lower coefficients. This allows fair comparison across weight classes. However, the relationship isn't linear - there's an optimal bodyweight range for maximizing Wilks score. Very light lifters (<52kg) and very heavy lifters (>120kg) may find the Wilks formula less accurate compared to DOTS.

Question 7

What are the Wilks formula coefficients?

Accepted Answer

Wilks formula uses gender-specific polynomial coefficients. For males: a=-216.0475144, b=16.2606339, c=-0.002388645, d=-0.00113732, e=7.01863E-06, f=-1.291E-08. For females: a=594.31747775582, b=-27.23842536447, c=0.82112226871, d=-0.00930733913, e=4.731582E-05, f=-9.054E-08. These coefficients are used in the polynomial formula to calculate the Wilks coefficient based on bodyweight.

Question 8

Is Wilks still used in powerlifting competitions?

Accepted Answer

Wilks is still used in some powerlifting federations and competitions, though many major federations have switched to DOTS since 2020. Some federations continue using Wilks for consistency with historical records and rankings. Wilks is also commonly used for historical comparisons and in online calculators. If you're competing, check your specific federation's scoring system to know whether they use Wilks or DOTS.

Question 9

Can I compare Wilks and DOTS scores?

Accepted Answer

Wilks and DOTS scores are not directly comparable - they use different formulas and produce different numbers for the same total and bodyweight. Generally, DOTS scores tend to be slightly higher than Wilks scores for the same performance. While both measure relative strength, they shouldn't be used interchangeably. Use the same formula consistently when comparing your progress over time or comparing with other lifters.

Question 10

What is the highest Wilks score ever achieved?

Accepted Answer

The highest Wilks scores in history exceed 600+ points, achieved by world-class powerlifters at elite competitions. Male lifters in the heaviest weight classes with exceptional totals (900+ kg totals) can achieve 600+ Wilks. Female lifters have achieved 500+ Wilks scores. These represent world-class, elite-level strength relative to bodyweight. Most competitive lifters aim for 400+ Wilks (advanced level) or 450+ Wilks (elite level).

Wilks Calculator - Powerlifting Wilks Score Calculator & Wilks Coefficient Calculator

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