The Wilks calculator is a tool used in powerlifting to compare the strength of lifters across different weight classes. It was developed by Robert Wilks and is commonly employed in powerlifting competitions to level the playing field among competitors of varying sizes. The Wilks Coefficient takes into account the lifter's total lifted weight, gender, and body weight, providing a numerical score that allows for fair comparisons and rankings across different weight classes. It enables a more equitable assessment of strength, making it a valuable tool for both competitive and recreational powerlifters.
How do I calculate Wilks Coefficient?
The Wilks Coefficient is calculated using the following formula:
Original Wilks Coefficient = 500 / (a + bx² +cx² +dx³ +ex⁴ +fx⁵)
where:
- x body weight in kilograms,
- a - f is coefficients (see table below)
The coefficients are different for male and female lifters:
| Coefficient | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| a | -216.0475144 | 594.31747775582 |
| b | 16.2606339 | -27.2384253644 |
| c | -0.002388645 | 0.82112226871 |
| d | -0.00113732 | -0.00930733913 |
| e | 7.01863 × 10−6 | 4.731582 × 10−5 |
| f | -1.291 × 10−8 | -9.054 × 10−8 |
You can use this formula and coefficients to calculate the Wilks coefficient based on total lifted weight and lifter body mass for the male and female categories.
To calculate the Wilks Score you need to multiply the Wilks Coefficient by the weight lifted.
Wilks score [points] = Wilks coefficient * Weight lifted [kilograms]
Let's look at an example. A male weightlifter weighing 105 kg lifted a weight of 235 kg.
Let's enter the values into the calculator and we get:
- Wilks Coefficient: 0.598
- Wilks Score: 140.425 points
There are also other calculators on the site for assessing one's fitness - One rep max, Push-up test.
The Wilks score, or Wilks coefficient, is a numerical value derived from the Wilks formula, which is used in powerlifting to compare and normalize the strength of lifters across different body weights and genders. The score is calculated using a lifter's total lifted weight, body weight, and gender.
In simpler terms, the Wilks score helps level the playing field by providing a standardized measure of strength that accounts for variations in body weight. It allows for fair comparisons between lifters of different sizes, enabling competitions to recognize and rank strength performances across various weight classes.
A higher Wilks score indicates relatively greater strength for a lifter, while a lower score suggests comparatively less strength. The Wilks score is a valuable tool in powerlifting competitions, helping to determine winners and rankings without favoring lifters solely based on their body weight.