What is a good DOTS score?

A DOTS score over 350 is considered a solid intermediate level. Scores exceeding 500 are typical of advanced and national-level powerlifters.

Is DOTS better than Wilks?

The DOTS formula is preferred by modern federations like the IPF as it reduces the mathematical bias against middleweight lifters found in the older Wilks formula.

DOTS Calculator: Powerlifting Strength Standards

Select Lift

Equipment

Sex

Bodyweight (kg)

Squat (kg)

Bench (kg)

Deadlift (kg)

Total DOTS Score

203

Rank: Novice (40%)

What is the DOTS Coefficient?

The DOTS Calculator is the modern standard for powerlifting, developed to compare the relative strength of athletes across different body weights and genders. It replaced older formulas like Wilks and Glossbrenner within the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) and various worldwide federations because it effectively eliminated the mathematical bias against middleweight athletes.

Male DOTS Strength Standards

Level	Total DOTS
World Class	480+
Elite	420+
Advanced	350+
Intermediate	270+
Novice	190+

Female DOTS Strength Standards

Level	Total DOTS
World Class	380+
Elite	330+
Advanced	270+
Intermediate	210+
Novice	150+

Frequently Asked Questions

Is DOTS more accurate than the Wilks formula? ▼

Yes. Studies showed Wilks favored very light and very heavy lifters (a U-shaped bias). The DOTS formula was designed specifically to provide a fairer comparison for middleweight athletes, making it the preferred metric for the IPF.

What is considered a good DOTS score? ▼

For most recreational powerlifters, a score of 300 is a great milestone. Competitive regional lifters often score between 400 and 450, while national and international competitors frequently exceed 500.

Ready to Level Up?

Join lifters using AI to optimize their DOTS coefficient.