What is a DOTS score?
DOTS (Dynamic Objective Team Scoring) turns a powerlifting total into a single score that accounts for bodyweight and sex, so a 60 kg lifter and a 120 kg lifter can be compared fairly. It replaced Wilks as the common best-lifter formula in many federations because Wilks tended to undervalue heavier lifters.
The DOTS formula
DOTS = total × 500 ÷ (a·BW⁴ + b·BW³ + c·BW² + d·BW + e), with bodyweight (BW) and total in kilograms. The coefficients differ by sex:
- Men: a = −0.000001093, b = 0.0007391293, c = −0.1918759221, d = 24.0900756, e = −307.75076
- Women: a = −0.0000010706, b = 0.0005158568, c = −0.1126655495, d = 13.6175032, e = −57.96288
If you enter pounds, the calculator converts to kilograms first — the formula is only defined in kg. Scores are rounded to one decimal.
Is DOTS the same as IPF GL points?
No. The IPF uses its own GL (Goodlift) points for official best-lifter awards, which also adjust for equipment and event. DOTS is federation-neutral and is used by many non-IPF federations, local meets, and leaderboards — check your meet's rules for which formula decides best lifter.
What's a good DOTS score?
It depends on your experience. As a rough guide, many first-meet lifters land in the 200s–300s, competitive state-level lifters in the 350–450 range, and national/international lifters above that. Compare yourself to real results on the Loaded rankings, or find your next upcoming powerlifting meet.