1. What is the Wilks Formula?

The Wilks formula (or Wilks coefficient) is used to compare the strength of powerlifters while accounting for differences in body weight. It allows for fair comparison between lifters of different sizes and genders.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Wilks formula:

Where:

• \( lift \) — Total weight lifted (squat + bench press + deadlift) in kg
• \( coeff \) — Wilks coefficient calculated based on bodyweight and gender

Explanation: The coefficient is derived from a polynomial equation that normalizes scores across different bodyweights and genders.

3. Importance of Wilks Score

Details: The Wilks score is crucial for comparing strength across different weight classes in powerlifting competitions and for tracking relative strength progress over time.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total competition lift in kg, your bodyweight in kg, and select your gender. All values must be valid (lift > 0, bodyweight > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why use Wilks instead of raw totals?
A: Wilks allows fair comparison between lifters of different bodyweights and genders by accounting for the non-linear relationship between body size and strength potential.

Q2: What is a good Wilks score?
A: Scores vary by experience level. Generally: 200-300 (beginner), 300-400 (intermediate), 400-500 (advanced), 500+ (elite).

Q3: Is Wilks used in all powerlifting federations?
A: While widely used, some federations now use newer formulas like IPF Points (formerly Glossbrenner) or Reshel.

Q4: How often is the Wilks formula updated?
A: The original 1995 formula remains popular, though updated coefficients were proposed in 2020 (Wilks2).

Q5: Does Wilks work for extreme bodyweights?
A: The formula is less accurate for very light or heavy lifters outside typical competition ranges.