DOTS Powerlifting Score Calculator
The DOTS score lets powerlifters of different body weights be compared on a level footing. It multiplies the total weight lifted by a coefficient derived from body weight using a fifth-order polynomial, with separate constants for men and women. A higher DOTS score reflects a stronger lift relative to body weight. This tool applies the published DOTS polynomial; enter your bodyweight in kilograms and your total in the same unit you want scored.
DOTS coefficient
Coefficient = 500 / (A*bw^4 + B*bw^3 + C*bw^2 + D*bw + E)
Male: A=-0.000001093, B=0.0007391293, C=-0.1918759221, D=24.0900756, E=-307.75076
Female: A=-0.0000010706, B=0.0005158568, C=-0.1126655495, D=13.6175032, E=-57.96288
DOTS score = coefficient * total lifted
Body weight is in kilograms and the polynomial uses the published DOTS constants. The total is multiplied by the coefficient to give the score. The polynomial is the official one adopted by the International Powerlifting League for the DOTS formula.
Worked example
For a 90 kg male lifting a 600 kg total: the denominator = -0.000001093*90^4 + 0.0007391293*90^3 + -0.1918759221*90^2 + 24.0900756*90 + -307.75076 = -71.71 + 538.83 - 1554.20 + 2168.11 - 307.75 = 773.28. Coefficient = 500 / 773.28 = 0.6466. DOTS score = 0.6466 * 600 = 387.96.
Frequently asked questions
What is the DOTS score for?
It normalises a powerlifting total for body weight so lifters in different weight classes, and men and women, can be compared. It has largely replaced older coefficients such as Wilks in some federations.
Which units should I use?
Body weight must be in kilograms because the polynomial constants are fitted to kilogram bodyweights. Enter the total in the unit you want scored; conventionally the total is also in kilograms.
Does DOTS use different constants for men and women?
Yes. The polynomial has separate coefficient sets for male and female lifters, reflecting different strength-to-bodyweight curves. This calculator selects the set based on the sex you choose.
Is a higher DOTS score better?
Yes. For a given total, a lighter lifter earns a higher coefficient, and for a given bodyweight a bigger total earns a higher score. The score rewards strength relative to body weight.
Sources
- International Powerlifting League, official rulebook and DOTS formula: IPL.
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 19 June 2026. Educational tool for sport comparison. See our methodology.