Wilks, DOTS and IPF GL calculator

How do you compare a 60 kg athlete's performance with a 110 kg one? That is what allometric coefficients do in powerlifting. They normalize your SBD total based on bodyweight to produce a score comparable across classes.

The calculator shows the three standards in parallel: Wilks (legacy), DOTS (official replacement since 2019), and IPF GL (official IPF coefficient since 2020).

Which formula to use

• DOTS: modern standard for non-IPF federations (USPA, RPS, GPC). Default recommended.
• IPF GL: official coefficient for IPF competitions. Use if you compete IPF.
• Wilks: useful for historical comparison (pre-2019 results). Slightly biased toward heavier lifters.

Indicative DOTS benchmarks

• < 200: beginner.
• 200-300: intermediate.
• 300-400: advanced.
• 400-500: elite (regional/national level).
• 500+: world class.

Reference points: a 500 kg total for an 83 kg man gives about 338 DOTS. Reaching 500 DOTS at the same bodyweight takes a total close to 740 kg.

Coach use

On Unbrokn for strength and powerlifting, DOTS lets you compare athlete progression independent of weight class. Useful to compose competition teams, measure real progression, select internal challengers.

FAQ

Why is my Wilks different from my DOTS?

The two formulas use different curves. For men, Wilks gives slightly less than DOTS between about 68 and 119 kg, slightly more below and above. For women, Wilks gives slightly more under about 63 kg, slightly less above. The gap stays within a few percent.

Does the calculator work in pounds?

Not as is: all coefficients are calibrated in kilograms. Convert before entering: 1 lb = 0.4536 kg.