Wilks Coefficient Calculator
The Wilks coefficient was created by Robert Wilks of Powerlifting Australia to provide a fair method for comparing powerlifting performances across different body weights and sexes. Because heavier athletes can generally lift more in absolute terms, a direct comparison of totals would always favour the heaviest lifter. The Wilks score applies a correction factor derived from a fifth-degree polynomial equation fitted to competitive powerlifting data, normalising each lifter's total to a common scale. This makes it possible to determine an overall winner at a competition that spans multiple weight classes, and to track your own progress relative to elite standards. Enter your body weight in kilograms and your powerlifting total (squat plus bench press plus deadlift in kilograms), select your sex, and the calculator returns your Wilks score along with a performance rating.
Wilks formula
Wilks Score = Total(kg) x 500 / (a + b*x + c*x^2 + d*x^3 + e*x^4 + f*x^5)
Male constants: a=-216.0475144, b=16.2606339, c=-0.002388645, d=-0.00113732, e=7.01863E-06, f=-1.291E-08
Female constants: a=594.31747775582, b=-27.23842536447, c=0.82112226871, d=-0.00930733913, e=4.731582E-05, f=-9.054E-08
Where x is body weight in kg. The coefficient caps at body weights of 40 kg (lower) and 201.9 kg for males, 150.95 kg for females (upper).
Wilks score benchmarks
- Below 200: Novice level
- 200 to 300: Recreational/intermediate
- 300 to 400: Competitive club level
- 400 to 450: National competitive level
- 450 to 500: Elite national level
- Above 500: World-class
Frequently asked questions
What is the Wilks coefficient?
The Wilks coefficient is a formula used in powerlifting to compare lifters of different body weights. It applies a correction factor based on body weight so that a lighter lifter and a heavier lifter can be compared on a level playing field. A higher Wilks score means stronger relative to body weight.
What is a good Wilks score?
For recreational lifters, a Wilks score above 300 is solid. Competitive powerlifters often exceed 400. Elite and world-class lifters typically score 450 to 500 or above. These benchmarks differ between male and female formulas.
How is the Wilks score calculated?
Wilks score = Total lifted (kg) x Coefficient. The coefficient is derived from a fifth-degree polynomial based on body weight in kg, with separate constants for males and females. The formula was developed by Robert Wilks of Powerlifting Australia.
Has Wilks been replaced?
IPF (International Powerlifting Federation) now uses the IPF GL Points formula, introduced in 2020. Wilks scores are still widely used in non-IPF federations and for historical comparison. This calculator provides the original Wilks formula.
Does the Wilks formula account for equipped vs raw lifting?
No, the Wilks formula is applied to the total regardless of equipment category. Equipped totals are typically higher, so Wilks scores should be compared within the same equipment category for a fair result.
Official sources
- International Powerlifting Federation: IPF Formulas.
- National Strength and Conditioning Association: NSCA Strength Articles.
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026. See our methodology.