Dots Calculator

What is DOTS?

The DOTS score is a standardized strength metric that compares lifters across different body weights and genders. It objectively measures strength-to-weight ratio, allowing fair comparison between athletes of all sizes in powerlifting and weightlifting.

The DOTS Formula

The calculation uses different polynomial coefficients for men and women:

DOTS Score = Lifted Weight × (500 / (a×BW⁴ + b×BW³ + c×BW² + d×BW + e))

Where:

• BW = Bodyweight in kg
• a-e = Gender-specific coefficients:
  • 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

How to Use

1. Enter your bodyweight in kilograms
2. Input the weight lifted during your best performance
3. Select your gender (different coefficients apply)
4. View your DOTS score and strength classification
5. Compare with the visual chart showing average/elite standards

Key Features

• Fair strength comparison across weight classes
• Gender-specific calculations
• Visual performance benchmarking
• Strength level classification (Novice to World Class)

FAQs

Q: Why use DOTS instead of raw weight lifted?
A: DOTS accounts for bodyweight differences - a 60kg lifter lifting 100kg is more impressive than a 100kg lifter doing the same.

Q: How often is DOTS used in competitions?
A: Many powerlifting federations use DOTS or similar formulas (like Wilks) to crown “best overall lifter” across weight classes.

Q: What’s a good DOTS score?
A: 200-300=Intermediate, 300-400=Advanced, 400+=Elite, 500+=World Class

Terminology

• Bodyweight: Your weight in kilograms (without equipment)
• Lifted Weight: Maximum successful lift in competition/training
• Coefficient: Bodyweight adjustment factor
• Strength Level: Classification based on DOTS score ranges