What Is a Sinclair Score?

The Sinclair coefficient is the standard method used by the International Weightlifting Federation (IWF) to compare the totals of weightlifters across different weight classes. While powerlifting uses the Wilks score, Olympic weightlifting (Snatch + Clean and Jerk) uses the Sinclair score.

How It Works

The formula calculates what a lifter’s total would be if they were in the highest bodyweight category while maintaining the same level of pound-for-pound strength. The coefficients are updated every four years to reflect changes in world records.