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:

• \( total \) — Total weight lifted in competition (squat, bench press, and deadlift combined)
• \( coeff \) — Coefficient based on body weight and gender

Explanation: The formula applies different coefficients to normalize scores across different body weights 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.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total competition lift in kg, select your gender, and enter your body weight in kg. All values must be valid (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 fact that lighter lifters typically lift less absolute weight.

Q2: What is a good Wilks score?
A: Scores vary by gender and experience level, but generally: 200-300 is intermediate, 300-400 is advanced, and 400+ is elite.

Q3: Is Wilks used in official competitions?
A: Yes, many powerlifting federations use Wilks scores to determine overall winners across weight classes.

Q4: Are there limitations to the Wilks formula?
A: The formula may not be as accurate at extreme body weights and newer formulas like IPF points have been developed.

Q5: How often is the Wilks formula updated?
A: The coefficients were last updated in 2017, but the original formula dates back to the 1990s.