IPF GL Points Calculator
IPF GL (GoodLift) Points is the official scoring system used by the International Powerlifting Federation since May 2020. It provides fair comparisons across weight classes, accounting for gender and equipment type (raw vs equipped). A score of 100 represents elite-level performance.
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IPF GL Points
References
Frequently Asked Questions
IPF GL (Goodlift) Points replaced IPF Points in May 2020 after a comprehensive evaluation showed superior performance across all metrics. Developed by Dr. Anatoliy Stetsenko and colleagues using statistical analysis of 20,000+ elite performances, the formula uses a three-parameter exponential function that better models the "diminishing returns" of bodyweight on strength. The IPF updates coefficients every four years.
IPF GL uses eight distinct coefficient sets covering all combinations: male/female, raw(classic)/equipped, and full power(SBD)/bench-only. This granular approach addresses a major limitation of Wilks, which applied uniformly across equipment types. The separate coefficients recognize that equipped lifting allows different total potentials than raw lifting.
The formula is calibrated so that 100 points represents world-class elite performance - approximately equivalent to world record level for your bodyweight, gender, and equipment category. This intuitive scaling means 80+ points indicates elite competitive level, 60-80 points represents advanced performance, and 40-60 points is intermediate.
The base IPF GL formula doesn't include age coefficients, but the McCulloch age adjustment is commonly applied for masters/junior comparisons. This multiplier ranges from 1.00 (open: ages 24-39) to higher values for youth and masters 70+. For official IPF competition rankings within age categories, lifters compete against others in their division, making age adjustment unnecessary.
The IPF's 2020 evaluation ranked formulas: IPF GL first, DOTS second, Wilks third. IPF GL showed the least bias across weight classes and most consistent performance from mediocre to exceptional lifters. In practice, an elite male raw lifter might score 85 IPF GL, 450 DOTS, and 460 Wilks - the numbers aren't directly comparable but rank similarly.
Yes, the IPF updates coefficients approximately every four years to reflect changes in elite performance standards. As top lifters set new records, the baseline shifts slightly. This ensures 100 points always represents current world-class performance rather than becoming outdated. For personal tracking, this means historical comparisons require noting which coefficient version was used.