What a Wilks score means#
The Wilks coefficient turns your powerlifting total into a bodyweight-adjusted score so lifters in different weight classes can be compared directly. It was the standard formula in powerlifting for over two decades, and “a 400 Wilks” is still shorthand for a serious lifter in most gyms.
Rough Wilks benchmarks#
| Wilks | Level |
|---|---|
| 200 | Novice — first year of structured training |
| 300 | Intermediate — stronger than most gym members |
| 400 | Advanced — competitive at local and national meets |
| 500 | Elite |
| 600+ | World class |
Wilks vs DOTS#
Research showed the original Wilks coefficients systematically favored certain bodyweights, so most federations replaced it with DOTS, which uses updated coefficients on the same idea. Your DOTS score is shown alongside your Wilks above; for new comparisons and most modern competitions, DOTS is the number to quote. The DOTS calculator lets you enter squat, bench, and deadlift separately.
Methodology#
Wilks is total × 500 ÷ P(bodyweight), where P is the original fifth-degree polynomial with published coefficients for men and women, computed on kilograms. Pound inputs are converted before scoring. No competition total? Estimate your lifts from rep work with the one rep max calculator.