Wilks & DOTS Calculator

Who is stronger: a 70 kilo lifter who totals 400, or a 110 kilo lifter who totals 500? Raw numbers cannot answer that, because heavier lifters can move more absolute weight. Wilks and DOTS solve it by scoring strength relative to body weight, so lifters of any size can be compared on one scale. The calculator above gives you both.

How the scoring works

Both systems apply a coefficient based on your body weight, then multiply it by the weight you lifted. The coefficient is higher for lighter lifters, which offsets the natural advantage bigger athletes have in absolute load. The result is a single number that reflects strength relative to size.

Enter your sex, your body weight in kilograms, and the weight you lifted. You can use a full powerlifting total or a single lift, the score scales either way. The calculator returns your DOTS points, your Wilks score, and the DOTS coefficient itself.

Wilks versus DOTS

Wilks was the standard for years and is still widely quoted. DOTS is the newer formula that most federations have moved to, because it corrects some quirks in how Wilks treated the lightest and heaviest lifters. Both are shown so you can compare against whichever scale your gym, federation, or training partners use.

Neither is perfect. These formulas are population averages, so they cannot account for limb length, training age, or how recently you peaked. Treat the score as a fair comparison tool, not an absolute verdict.

What to do with the number

The most useful application is tracking yourself over time. A rising DOTS score, even at a steady body weight, is clean evidence you are getting stronger relative to your size. It is also a fairer way to set goals than chasing a raw total, especially if your body weight is changing as you cut or build.

For how to structure the training that actually moves that score, read the strength training guides.