1. What is the Wilks Powerlifting Score?

The Wilks score is a coefficient used in powerlifting to compare the relative strength of lifters across different body weights and genders. It allows for fair comparison between athletes by normalizing their total lifts.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Wilks formula for women:

Where:

• \( lift \) — Total powerlifting competition result (squat + bench press + deadlift) in kg
• \( coeff_{women} \) — Wilks coefficient based on body weight (different for men and women)

Explanation: The Wilks coefficient accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and strength potential, allowing fair comparison across weight classes.

3. Importance of Wilks Score

Details: The Wilks score is crucial for comparing powerlifters of different body weights in competitions and rankings. It helps determine the most impressive lifts relative to body size.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total competition lift in kg (sum of squat, bench press, and deadlift) and your body weight in kg. All values must be valid (lift > 0, weight > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What is a good Wilks score for women?
A: A Wilks score of 300+ is considered good, 400+ is excellent, and 500+ is world-class for women powerlifters.

Q3: How is the Wilks coefficient calculated?
A: The coefficient is derived from a polynomial equation based on statistical analysis of powerlifting performances across weight classes.

Q4: Are there limitations to the Wilks formula?
A: The formula works best for adult lifters and may be less accurate for extreme body weights or youth lifters.

Q5: Has the Wilks formula been updated?
A: Yes, newer formulas like IPF Points (formerly Reshel) have been introduced, but Wilks remains widely used and understood.