Wilks Calculator
Calculate the Wilks score to compare powerlifting totals across body weights.
Wilks Score
Wilks Coefficient
What Is the Wilks Score?
The Wilks score (or Wilks coefficient) is a measure used in powerlifting to compare the relative strength of lifters across different body weights. Because heavier athletes can usually lift more in absolute terms, the Wilks formula normalizes the total lifted so that a lighter lifter and a heavier lifter can be compared fairly.
The Formula
- Coefficient = 500 / (a + b·x + c·x² + d·x³ + e·x⁴ + f·x⁵), where x is body weight in kilograms.
- Wilks Score = Total lifted (kg) × Coefficient.
- The constants a–f differ for male and female lifters. Pounds are converted to kilograms (× 0.453592) before the formula is applied.
Notes
- The original Wilks formula has largely been replaced by the newer IPF GL Points system in many federations, which uses updated coefficients.
- A higher Wilks score indicates a stronger lifter relative to their body weight. Elite male lifters often exceed 400, and elite female lifters often exceed 350.
- This calculator uses the classic (2017) Wilks coefficients and treats body weight and total lifted in the same selected unit.
Related Calculators
Note: This calculator uses the classic Wilks formula. Different federations may use updated coefficients or alternative scoring systems such as IPF GL Points. Results are for informational purposes only.