Powerlifting Calculator
Calculate your powerlifting total, Wilks score, DOTS, IPF points, and competition classification
Calculate Your Powerlifting Scores
Enter your lifts (kg)
Understanding Powerlifting Metrics
Powerlifting is a strength sport that consists of three main lifts: the squat, bench press, and deadlift. The sum of the best successful attempt at each lift constitutes a powerlifter's total. This calculator helps you determine various metrics used in powerlifting to evaluate performance across different weight classes and skill levels.
Powerlifting Total
Your powerlifting total is simply the sum of your maximum squat, bench press, and deadlift weights. This is the primary metric used in competitions to rank lifters within their weight classes. However, to compare lifters across different weight classes, coefficient formulas like Wilks, DOTS, and IPF Points are used.
Wilks Coefficient
The Wilks Coefficient was developed by Robert Wilks and has been the standard method for comparing powerlifting performances across different weight classes for many years. It takes into account the lifter's bodyweight and total weight lifted, applying mathematical coefficients that differ for men and women to normalize the results.
While the Wilks Coefficient has been widely used, it's been criticized for potential biases, particularly at extreme ends of the weight spectrum. This has led to the development of newer formulas like DOTS and IPF Points.
DOTS Score
The DOTS (Developable Objective Training Score) system was created to address some of the criticisms of the Wilks formula. It aims to provide a more equitable comparison across all weight classes, particularly benefiting lifters at the lighter and heavier ends of the spectrum where Wilks may have shown bias.
IPF Points
IPF Points is the newest scoring system, adopted by the International Powerlifting Federation. This formula compares performances to world records in each weight category and is currently used in international competitions to determine the best lifters. The IPF Points system has separate formulas for equipped and classic (raw) divisions, acknowledging the distinct nature of these lifting styles.
Powerlifting Classifications
Classifications in powerlifting range from Untrained to World Class, providing lifters with benchmarks for their performance level. These classifications are based on coefficient scores (like Wilks) and consider factors such as sex, bodyweight, and sometimes age.
The typical progression of classifications is:
- Untrained: Someone who has not trained in powerlifting
- Novice: A beginner who has trained for several months
- Intermediate: A lifter with consistent training for 1-2 years
- Advanced: A serious lifter with 2-5 years of dedicated training
- Elite: Top-tier lifters who may compete at national levels
- World Class: International-level competitors
How to Use This Calculator
To get accurate results from this calculator:
- Select your biological sex (important for the correct coefficient formulas)
- Enter your current bodyweight
- Choose your preferred weight unit (kilograms or pounds)
- Enter your best lift numbers for squat, bench press, and deadlift
- Click "Calculate" to see your total and various scoring metrics
Age is an optional field that can be useful for age-adjusted classifications, though these are less standardized across the sport.
Training Implications
Understanding your classification can help guide your training. Beginners and intermediates should focus on building general strength and perfecting form. Advanced and elite lifters typically need more specialized training protocols and may benefit from working with coaches who can help them break through plateaus.
Regularly calculating your powerlifting metrics can help you track progress over time and set realistic goals based on established standards. However, remember that these classifications are just guidelines - individual factors like training history, genetics, and anthropometry play significant roles in strength development.