The Wilks score powerlifting is a formula that takes into account your strength compared to other lifters of the same bodyweight and gender. It is used by most powerlifting federations across the world. It is based on research and a coefficient devised by Robert Wilks, CEO of Powerlifting Australia. Although it has its critics, such as an unfavorable bias towards heavier lifters, the Wilks coefficient is the standard formula used in all competitive powerlifting meets.

The wilks score takes into account your total in the squat, bench press and deadlift to determine your rank. It is then multiplied by your body weight to give you a relative strength ranking. The higher your rank, the stronger you are. It is important to know your rank so you can compare your strength to other lifters of the same class and gender.

Understanding the Importance of Dots in Powerlifting”

It is also useful for comparing the strength of men and women, as men are generally stronger than women despite their lower bodyweight. Simple calculations based on how many times your body weight you can lift do not take into account this difference and would seriously disadvantage heavier lifters.

Sometimes the wilks score is adjusted to make it more accurate by multiplying it by an age-adjusted formula called McCulloch coefficient. This takes into account the fact that younger lifters often have not developed to their full potential, and that strength begins to decline at around 40 years old.