Jesus Olivares has quickly become one of the most exciting and respected powerlifters of all-time. He solidified his position has one of the all-time greats with his electrifying March 2023 performance at the IPF Sheffield Powerlifting Championships, where he totaled 1,152.5 kg (nearly 2,541 pounds), setting the world record for raw, drug-tested powerlifters.
[Read more…]Built With Science Coupon Code for 20% Off
Above you’ll find a discount code to save 20% on programs from Built With Science.
About Built With Science
Built With Science is a fitness and nutrition platform created by Jeremy Ethier in 2018. It offers evidence-based training and nutrition programs designed to help individuals achieve their health and fitness goals. The platform provides a wide range of programs, including those aimed at muscle building, fat loss, and overall fitness. The programs are based on scientific research and are designed to be efficient and effective.
DOTS Score Powerlifting Calculator
You can use this powerlifting calculator to calculate DOTS score, Wilks score, and IPF GL points. These scores are used at powerlifting meets to determine the best lifter. The exact score used depends on the powerlifting federation hosting the meet.
How to use the powerlifting calculator:
- Enter the weight lifted and your bodyweight
- Choose lb or kg
- Select gender
- Select the meet type
- Press “Calculate”
Your scores will be generated for you in the results box.
Powerlifting Calculator
Results
Wilks-2 Score:
Wilks Original Score:
IPF Points:
IPF GL Points:
DOTS Score:
The formulas were derived from this 2020 study, which evaluated the efficacy of the different powerlifting scoring models.
If you’re looking to increase your powerlifting total, try out our free and effective powerlifting programs.
Powerlifting Scoring Models
A number of scoring coefficients have been used in powerlifting to help identify the overall best lifter. The goal of these coefficients is to allow two lifters to be fairly compared, even if they differ by body weight, age, and gender.
Each have their own advantages and drawbacks, usually related to the weight class of the lifter (e.g. favoring heavy or light lifters). You can review a highly technical analysis of the different scoring models in terms of which gender and weight class each model “favors.”
For a more complete account of the history of these coefficients, please see this review by Physical Culture Study.
Below are the definitions of the scores provided by this calculator.
DOTS Score
Introduced: 2019
Still in use: Yes (USAPL, USPA)
DOTS (Dynamic Object Team Rating System) is a relatively new method for comparing powerlifting performance across gender and weight class. In the IPF’s 2020 evaluation of scoring models, DOTS ranked 2nd to the IPF GL formula in terms of overall scoring efficacy.
Outside of the IPF, DOTS appears to be gaining popularity amongst powerlifting federations.
The DOTS score is used by the USAPL and USPA in assessing the “best lifter” award for non-master lifters. For master lifters, the McCulloch coefficients are applied.
IPF GL Points
Introduced: 2020
Still in use: Yes (IPF)
IPF GL points are used by the IPF and IPF affiliates (including Powerlifting America) when ranking the best lifter of a competition. It officially replaced IPF Points in May 2020 as a more fair and balanced way to accurately assess powerlifting performance.
It ranked first in the IPF’s 2020 evaluation of scoring methods for accuracy and efficacy.
Wilks Points
Introduced: 1995
Still in use: unclear
The Wilks Coefficient, often referred to as the Wilks Score, was introduced in 1995. It was developed by Robert Wilks, CEO of Powerlifting Australia, as a method to compare the strength of powerlifters across different body weights. The Wilks Score quickly gained popularity and was adopted by many powerlifting federations worldwide as a standard measure of relative strength.
The popularity of the Wilks scoring system began to wane in 2019 when the IPF switched over to using the original IPF Points coefficient and then, a year later, the updated IPF GL Points coefficient.
Wilks 2 Points
Introduced: 2020
Still in use: Yes (Powerlifting Australia)
In 2020, Robert Wilks updated his original Wilks coefficient. This is often referred to as the “Wilks 2” or “Wilks 2020” coefficient.
This updated Wilks formula was not adopted by the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), which had already switched to using the IPF Points system in 2019, also developed by Robert Wilks.
The Wilks 2 formula aims to address some of the criticisms of the original Wilks formula, particularly the perceived bias towards extremely light and heavy lifters. It uses a different set of coefficients to calculate a lifter’s score.
Wilks 2 ranked third in the IPF’s 2020 evaluation of scoring methods for accuracy and efficacy.
The most prominent usage of the Wilks 2 formula occurs within Powerlifting Australia.
IPF Points
Introduced: 2019
Still in use: No
IPF Points replaced Wilks Score in 2019 when determining the best lifter within IPF competitions. It placed last in a 2020 evaluation of scoring methods and replaced shortly thereafter by IPF GL.
The 6 Best Fruit Flavored Protein Powders
Finding a fruit-flavored protein powder that satisfies your taste buds can be a workout game-changer. For those who don’t like the taste of pure unflavored whey protein powder, it’s common to mask the flavor in vanilla or chocolate. However, have you ever tried a fruit-flavored protein powder? They can a fun change of pace from the traditional flavor standbys!
However, there are a lot of bad-tasting fruit-flavored protein powder products out there. To help you avoid these, we’ve compiled this list of the 6 best fruit-flavored protein powder options on the market today.
Our recommended for the best fruit flavored protein powder is 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs’ strawberry flavor. It’s a delicious flavor of one of our most recommended protein powders. It’s clean, lean, and delicious. All you could reasonably ask for in a protein powder.
If that’s not your style – no worries. We’ve got a little bit of everything below, we even threw in some fruit-flavored protein bars! It’s our list – we make the rules.
Now let’s get fruity…
[Read more…]The 5 Best Tasting Mass Gainers
When you’re looking to pack on some size, getting a mass gainer is a no-brainer. The only issue is choosing the right one, especially when taste is a top priority. Save your sweating for the gym! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a roundup of the best-tasting mass gainers that not only pack a punch in the gains department but also delight your taste buds.
Spoiler alert: based on our testing, Mass Gainer by Transparent Labs is the overall best-tasting mass gainer.
But honestly it’s worth checking out the entire list. We have something for everyone, including vegans and those who prefer whole food ingredients.
Let’s go!
[Read more…]Kaged Protein Isolate Elite Review
Protein Isolate Elite from Kaged is a premium protein powder launched in September 2023. It’s part of Kaged’s Elite Series of products. It combines three different protein sources: whey isolate, casein isolate, and milk protein isolate. This means it includes fast, medium, and slow digesting proteins for a steady supply of muscle-building amino acids.
Specifically, Protein Isolate Elite contains 15 grams of ioWhey, a trademarked form of whey that contains an over 100% increase in isoleucine, BCAA, and EAA bioavailability.
Of course, Protein Isolate Elite is delicious, as you’d expect from Kaged. I tried the cookies & cream flavor and it tastes just like an Oreo milkshake.
I’d recommend this product to anyone that wants a high quality whey protein powder. It’s also great for drug-tested athletes because it’s Informed Sport Certified, which means every single batch is 3rd party tested for banned substances.
Kaged Protein Isolate Elite combines three different protein sources (whey isolate, casein, and milk protein isolate) to deliver fast, medium, and slow-absorbing protein to your muscles.
Great for breakfast shakes or in-between meals.
Where to Buy
You can buy Kaged Protein Isolate Elite directly from Kaged and from GNC.
My Experience
Overall, I enjoyed Kaged Protein Isolate Elite and will definitely be finishing my tub. It’s earned a spot in my rotation of protein powders that I use with my daily breakfast shake.
Here’s a close up of how the protein powder looks in the scooper:

I mixed Protein Isolate Elite into my normal morning protein shake of milk, peanut butter powder, an egg, and oatmeal. It does mix up a little thicker than some other protein powders, so if you like your protein powders thick and creamy, you’ll be a fan of Protein Isolate Elite.
Flavor
The cookies & cream flavor tasted delicious, similar to an oreo milkshake. It was noticeable, but not overpowering. It definitely tasted less artificial than many other protein powders I’ve tried in the past.
Overall, thumbs up!
Ingredients
Kaged Protein Isolate Elite is Informed Sport Certified, meaning every batch is tested for accuracy and purity. This means that each tub contains exactly what it say it does and that it is free of any banned substances.
This makes it an excellent protein powder for athletes, especially those that compete in drug-tested competition.
Here’s a look at the ingredient panel:

Notably, this protein powder combines three different protein sources. This is the most unique aspect of Kaged’s Protein Isolate Elite and we’ll be digging into each protein source to tell you about how they work together.
Here are the three types of protein used in this product:
- Whey Protein Isolate
- Micellar Casein Protein
- Milk Protein Isolate
Key Differences
The key differences between these proteins lie in their composition, digestion rates, and use-cases:
- Whey Protein Isolate is quickly absorbed, making it ideal for post-workout recovery. It’s also low in lactose, suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance.
- Micellar Casein Protein is slowly absorbed, making it perfect for providing a sustained release of amino acids over time, such as during sleep or periods of fasting.
- Milk Protein Isolate contains both whey and casein proteins, offering a balance of fast and slow digestion. It’s beneficial for those seeking both immediate and sustained protein release.
Whey Protein Isolate
Whey Protein Isolate (WPI) is a dietary supplement and food ingredient created by separating components from milk. It’s a by-product of cheese production. The “isolate” in the name refers to the purification process where most of the fats and lactose are removed, leaving primarily protein. WPI is typically at least 90% protein.
Whey protein isolate is one of the most common protein sources used in lactose-free protein powder.
Key Features:
- High in protein (90-95%)
- Fast absorption rate, making it beneficial for post-workout recovery
- Contains all essential amino acids
- Low in fat and carbohydrates
- Lactose-free or contains only minimal amounts, beneficial for those with lactose intolerance
Micellar Casein Protein
Micellar Casein Protein is another type of protein derived from milk. It coagulates in the stomach, resulting in a slow, sustained release of amino acids into the bloodstream, which can last for several hours. This makes it particularly beneficial for muscle recovery during sleep or periods of fasting.
Key Features:
- Slow digestion and absorption rate, providing a sustained release of amino acids
- High in protein (80%)
- Contains all essential amino acids
- Beneficial for muscle growth and recovery during sleep or periods of fasting
Milk Protein Isolate
Milk Protein Isolate (MPI) is a complete protein derived from milk, containing both whey and casein proteins in the same proportion found in milk (20% whey and 80% casein). It’s produced by removing the fat and lactose from skim milk.
Key Features:
- High in protein (90%)
- Contains both whey and casein proteins, offering both fast and slow absorption rates
- Contains all essential amino acids
- Low in fat and lactose
- Beneficial for both immediate and sustained protein release
Kaged Hydration Elite Review
Hydration Elite is a hydration supplement released by Kaged in September 2023. It’s part of Kaged’s Elite Series of supplements and is an upgraded version of Hydra-Charge.
Key changes made to Hydration Elite include the addition of organic cane sugar for electrolyte absorption, vitamin C for immune support, IoniPlex trace minerals for hydration support, and ElevATP for power.
[Read more…]Kaged Pre-Workout Elite Review
Pre-Workout Elite is a premium pre-workout supplement released by Kaged in September 2023. It’s part of Kaged’s new Elite Series supplement line.
Fans of Kaged will immediately notice that this is essentially a light rebrand of the Pre-Kaged Elite Pre-Workout that Kaged released in 2022.
[Read more…]The 8 Best Clean Protein Powders in 2023
Protein powders are a pretty convenient way to increase your protein intake. The problem is that not all of them have a clean list of ingredients.
We’ve sorted all of that out for you.
[Read more…]The 7 Best Clean Vegan Protein Powders in 2023
Maintaining a vegan diet and getting enough protein isn’t always easy, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the rise of vegan protein powders, you now have a much simpler way of meeting your daily protein intake goal without compromising your diet.
This is the definitive list of the best clean vegan protein powders. Every protein powder on this list meets the following criteria:
[Read more…]The 9 Best Protein Powders for Cutting
Looking to lean out by going on a cut? Then make sure your protein powder is supporting your cut instead of sabotaging it.
While there are a bunch of options out there, Transparent Lab’s 100% Grass Fed Whey Isolate stands out as the top contender for those serious about shedding fat without compromising muscle mass. The combination of 28 grams of protein with just 0.5 grams of fat and 1 gram of carbs make it perfect for those on a cut.
[Read more…]The 8 Best Protein Powders for Beginners
Stepping into the world of protein supplements can be a lot, especially for beginners. With the countless options lining the shelves, where do you start?
For beginners, the 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs stands out as the top choice. It has an excellent macronutrient profile, delicious flavors, and a clean ingredient label. You really can’t go wrong with it.
[Read more…]The 7 Best Protein Powders for Seniors in 2023 (Tested)
As we age, maintaining muscle mass and overall health becomes key. This is where protein powders can become a convenient solution. The problem here is that trying to find the right protein powder can be difficult, especially for seniors who have unique nutritional needs.
Luckily, this guide will introduce you to the best protein powders tailored for seniors, ensuring you get the most from every scoop.
[Read more…]The 6 Best Protein Powders For Diabetes in 2023 (Tested)
It’s not uncommon for the worlds of fitness enthusiasts and health-conscious individuals to intersect at the junction of protein powders. This is especially true for people managing conditions like diabetes, where choosing the right protein powder can make a huge difference.
One of the best is 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs, but there are a lot of other good options for diabetics.
[Read more…]7 Best Low-Calorie Protein Powders in 2023 (Analyzed)
Looking for the lowest-calorie protein powder can be a headache, especially considering just how many options are out there.
But guess what?
We’ve done the legwork for you by calculating the percentage of calories from protein and selecting the lowest-calorie protein powders for you.
Our pick for the best low-calorie protein powder is 100% Grass-Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs.
With 93% of its calories coming from protein, this is one of the lowest calorie protein powders on the market. Plus, this protein powder is third-party tested for purity, has no artificial ingredients, and is available in a wide variety of delicious flavors.
[Read more…]8 Best Protein Powders Without Artificial Sweeteners
Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just the average Joe looking to boost your protein intake, you’ve probably considered getting yourself some protein powder. The problem with many protein powders is that sometimes they can contain needless additives, like artificial sweeteners.
[Read more…]7 Best Protein Powders for Men & Women Over 50
Trying to find the perfect protein powder can be quite a challenge, especially when you’re over 50 and your body’s needs may be different.
With all those flashy packages and buzzwords, it’s hard to settle on one that’s just right. But, no need to worry, we’ve got your back!
In this guide, we’ll break down the seven best protein powders for men and women over 50, and give you some handy insights.
[Read more…]The 8 Best Protein Powders To Mix With Water
Forget what the guy at your local gym told you, protein powders don’t have to be mixed with milk. In fact, some people even prefer mixing it with water, for a variety of reasons. That’s why we’ve decided to give you a guide on the best protein powders to mix with water.
We’ve scoured the market and our top pick is the 100% Grass Fed Whey Protein Isolate by Transparent Labs. This guide will help you understand why it’s our favorite, explore other great options, and answer some common questions.
[Read more…]The 6 Best Protein Powders for PCOS
Dealing with a condition like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can create a few dietary complications. Luckily, there are a few solutions to those complications, like adding protein powder to your diet. The only issue is choosing the best protein powder for you.
But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! We’ve sifted through the top protein powders out there to bring you the best six that are perfect for women with PCOS.
Overall, the best protein powder for people with PCOS is Organic Vegan Protein Powder by Transparent Labs. It contains no dairy, no artificial ingredients, and is sourced from PCOS-friendly ingredients like organic brown rice and organic pea isolate.
[Read more…]Cannibal Ferox AMPeD Pre-Workout Review
Cannibal Ferox AMPeD is an ultra high-stim pre-workout from Chaos and Pain. It contains over 500 mg of caffeine and 400 mg of DMHA per serving, making it one of the most loaded pre-workout ingredient labels of 2023.
I’d only recommend Cannibal Ferox AMPeD to the most experienced pre-workout users. Fans of adventurous, overloaded labels will want to try this one. But be warned: it does not taste good at all. If taste is important to you, I’d skip this one.
Thank you to Chaos and Pain for providing this product for Lift Vault to review!
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