TL;DR
- Use the free Spinto Wilks & DOTS Calculator below to compare strength fairly across bodyweights.
- DOTS is the newer standard many lifters prefer; Wilks is still widely referenced.
- Enter bodyweight and total, pick units and gender, and you’ll get both scores instantly.
- This guide explains the formulas, how to use the tool, and how to read your results.
Use the Spinto calculator FOR free below
What are Wilks and DOTS?
- Wilks & DOTS are scoring systems that normalize a lifter’s total against their bodyweight so different-sized lifters can be compared fairly.
- Both scores are scale-invariant: higher is better for the same total if bodyweight is lower, and vice versa.
- DOTS is newer and uses updated polynomials; Wilks (2020) is a common variant you’ll still see in leaderboards, meets, and historical comparisons.
How the formulas work (in plain English)
- You provide:
- Bodyweight (kg or lb)
- Powerlifting total: squat + bench + deadlift
- Gender (for coefficient selection)
- The calculator:
- Converts to kilograms internally for accuracy
- Applies a bodyweight polynomial to compute a coefficient
- Multiplies your total by that coefficient to produce your score
The math, for the nerds
- Wilks (2020 variant): [ \text{Wilks} = \left(\frac{500}{c_0 + c_1w + c_2w2 + c_3w3 + c_4w4 + c_5w5}\right)\times T ] where (w) is bodyweight in kg, (T) is total in kg, and coefficients (c_i) differ by gender.
- DOTS (gender-specific polynomial): [ \text{DOTS} = \frac{T \times 500}{w \times \left(a w3 + b w2 + c w + d \right)} ] where (a,b,c,d) are gender-specific coefficients and (w,T) are in kg.
Why lifters use both (and when you should)
| Aspect | DOTS | Wilks (2020) |
|---|---|---|
| Recency | Newer polynomial intended to improve fairness | Widely recognized, extensive historical usage |
| Gender specificity | Yes | Yes |
| Use cases | Modern leaderboards, comparisons across feds | Historical comparisons, meet archives, many apps |
| Takeaway | Prefer DOTS for current “apples-to-apples” | Keep Wilks for legacy comparison and context |
How to use the calculator (step-by-step)
- Select units (kg or lb). The tool converts and preserves your inputs on toggle.
- Choose gender for the correct coefficient set.
- Enter your bodyweight and total. You’ll see:
- Wilks (2020)
- DOTS
- Converted values (kg/lb) for quick sharing
- Use “Copy” for a one-tap snippet or “Share” for a permalink.
- Try “Sample” if you just want to see how it works.
Pro tip: Switch between kg and lb to sanity-check your numbers. The score will remain consistent after conversion.
Reading your score (context that actually helps)
- A higher DOTS or Wilks means stronger performance relative to your bodyweight.
- Don’t overfit to the number:
- It’s a tool for fair comparison, not a replacement for meet results, weight class strategy, or long-term progress.
- Use it to track changes when your bodyweight fluctuates between cycles.
Example calculation
Say you lift at 83.5 kg bodyweight and total 600 kg (just an example):
- The calculator converts your inputs, applies the gender-specific polynomials, and returns two numbers:
- Wilks (2020): e.g., 404.XX
- DOTS: e.g., 415.XX
Your exact decimals depend on the polynomial output for your bodyweight. You can copy the result to share with your coach or team chat.
Features that make analysis easy
- Accurate math in kilograms, with kg/lb input flexibility
- Gender-specific DOTS and Wilks coefficient sets
- Auto-calc as you type, with friendly validation
- Unit badges next to fields so you never mis-enter numbers
- Copy results, shareable links, and light/dark mode
- Local saving: your last inputs are remembered
Frequently asked questions
What is a good DOTS score?
It depends on your division, age, and meet standards. Use DOTS to compare within your weight class and track progress over time rather than chasing a global “good” number.
Is DOTS better than Wilks?
DOTS is newer and many lifters prefer it for comparisons today. Wilks remains valuable for legacy and historical context. Using both gives you the most complete picture.
Does the calculator work in pounds?
Yes. Enter lb or toggle units; the calculator converts internally to kilograms to maintain accuracy and consistency.
Which score do federations use?
It varies by federation and year. Always check the meet rulebook, and use this tool to understand how weight changes might affect relative performance.
Can I use this for weight-cut planning?
It can help you model how bodyweight changes influence relative strength scores, but always prioritize performance, recovery, and safe practices.
Why is my score different from another app?
Different apps may use different coefficient versions or rounding. This tool uses gender-specific DOTS and a common modern Wilks variant, with consistent kilogram-based math.
Lifter-first takeaways
- Control what you can: technique, programming, and recovery. Scores reflect, they don’t create, your strength.
- Track both DOTS and Wilks to learn how your bodyweight strategy interacts with performance.
- Share your link with coaches or teammates and keep a running log across cycles.
Final word
Numbers tell a story, but they’re not the whole story. Let this calculator show you the shape of your strength—then use training, nutrition, and recovery to write the next chapter.