DOTS Score Calculator
Calculate your DOTS score to compare powerlifting strength across weight classes using the modern IPF-adopted formula.
The DOTS score measures your powerlifting strength in relation to your body weight, according to a formula adopted by the IPF in 2019. Enter your total weight and body weight below to get your DOTS score and see how you compare to different weight classes.
What is DOTS
DOTS means nothing - it's named after the shape of the coefficient curve when plotted on a graph (a series of dots). Like Wilks, it takes your total amount of powerlifting and applies a coefficient based on bodyweight to produce a single comparable number.
DOTS Score = Total x Coefficient
The coefficient is derived from a polynomial formula with gender constants and recalibrated based on modern competition data.
Why DOTS replaced Wilks in the IPF.
The Wilks formula was based on competition data from the early 1990s. By 2019, the powerlifting population had changed dramatically: more lifters, wider bodyweight distribution, higher overall scores across the board.
The analysis showed that Wilks had systematic biases:
- The coefficient declined too slowly in high weight categories, making it easier for lifters weighing more than 120 kg to obtain high Wilks scores.
- ** The coefficient did not rise sharply enough for lifters weighing less than 60 kg.
- Centred points in the middle. Certain weight classes produced coefficients that did not reflect true competitive parity.
Tim Pickett and others developed DOTS using updated IPF competition results to create a fairer curve. The IPF adopted it for Best Lifter calculations from 2019, although some federations still use Wilks.
Interpretation of results
| DOTS Points | Level |
|---|---|
| 150-250 | Beginner |
| 250-350 | Intermediate |
| 350-450 | Advanced/Regional |
| 450-500 | National level |
| 500-550 | International level |
| 550+ | World Class |
The ranges differ slightly from Wilks' values because the coefficient curves are different. Do not compare the DOTS score directly with the Wilks score - they are on different scales.
DOTS vs Wilks in practice
For most recreational lifters, the difference is marginal. Both formulas rank lifters in roughly the same order in the middle weight range (70-100 kg). The differences occur at the extremes.
If you compete in an IPF member federation, check your federation's rules. Most have switched to DOTS or IPF points (GL formula). If you compete in a non-IPF federation, Wilks is probably still the standard.
For personal tracking, pick one and stick with it. Consistency is more important than which formula you use.
2020 multiplier update
The original DOTS coefficients were revised in 2020 with more data. When comparing historical scores, please note that DOTS calculations made before 2020 and after 2020 may differ slightly. The calculator above uses the current coefficients.
When DOTS is useful
Results. Your federation determines the formula, but DOTS is increasingly the default value for competitions under the IPF.
Target setting beyond the class limits. The DOTS target works whether you are losing or gaining weight. It answers the question, "Am I really stronger or just heavier?"
Compare yourself over time. If your DOTS goal goes up, you are relatively stronger. If it goes down despite a higher total, you've gained more body weight than strength.
Solving debates. When two lifters in different classes want to know who is stronger pound for pound, DOTS will give you a defensible answer.
Enter your number above and find out where you stand.