What is the Wilks coefficient?

The Wilks coefficient is a formula used in powerlifting to compare lifters of different bodyweights. It produces a single score that accounts for the natural advantage heavier lifters have, allowing fair comparisons across weight classes.

What is the difference between Wilks and Wilks2?

Wilks2 is the updated 2020 revision of the original Wilks formula, published by Robert Wilks. It uses revised polynomial coefficients that better normalize scores across the full bodyweight spectrum, particularly at lighter and heavier extremes.

What counts as a good Wilks score?

For recreational lifters, 200–300 is solid. Competitive amateurs typically score 300–400. Elite and nationally ranked lifters often exceed 450, and world-class lifters can reach 500+.

Does this calculator support equipped and raw powerlifting?

The Wilks formula is applied to the total regardless of equipment. Simply enter your total (equipped or raw) and the score reflects that total adjusted for bodyweight.

Can I use pounds instead of kilograms?

Yes. Select the "lbs" unit option and the calculator will automatically convert your bodyweight and total to kilograms before applying the formula, then display the result.

Is Wilks still used in competition?

Many federations have moved to alternative formulas such as DOTS or IPF GL Points, but Wilks remains widely recognized and is still used for historical comparisons and by many federations worldwide.

Wilks Coefficient Calculator

Enter your bodyweight and powerlifting total to calculate your Wilks2 score and compare strength across weight classes.

Your Lifter Details

Sex

Male Female

Unit System

Kilograms (kg) Pounds (lbs)

Bodyweight (kg)

Powerlifting Total (kg)

Sum of your best squat + bench press + deadlift

Wilks Score Reference

Copied!

Summary

Enter your bodyweight and powerlifting total to calculate your Wilks2 score and compare strength across weight classes.

How it works

Select your sex (male or female) — the formula coefficients differ.
Enter your bodyweight in kilograms or pounds.
Enter your powerlifting total (sum of best squat, bench press, and deadlift).
The calculator applies the Wilks2 (2020) polynomial formula to produce your Wilks score.
Use the score to compare your performance against lifters of different bodyweights.

Use cases

Compare lifters across different weight classes in powerlifting meets.
Track your own strength progress independent of bodyweight changes.
Determine who is relatively the strongest lifter at a competition.
Set bodyweight-normalized strength goals.
Rank athletes for pound-for-pound comparisons in online communities.
Evaluate progress after a bulk or cut where bodyweight changed significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-05-28 · Reviewed by Nham Vu