Powerlifting M1: Definition, Calculation, and Importance for Relative Strength

What does M1 mean in powerlifting?

In powerlifting, M1 refers to a composite score derived from a lifter's total weight lifted and their bodyweight, using a specific formula (such as Wilks, IPF GL, or DOTS) to provide a relative measure of strength that allows for fair comparison across different bodyweight categories and sexes.

Understanding Relative Strength Metrics in Powerlifting

Powerlifting competitions traditionally categorize athletes by bodyweight and sex to ensure fair competition. However, to determine an "overall" best lifter or to compare the strength of athletes across these different categories, a simple total weight lifted is insufficient. A heavier lifter will generally lift more absolute weight than a lighter lifter. This is where relative strength metrics come into play, providing a standardized way to compare strength pound-for-pound. M1 is the primary designation for this scaled, relative strength score.

Defining M1: The Powerlifting Coefficient

M1, at its core, represents a lifter's relative strength coefficient or score. It is not a measure of the absolute weight lifted, but rather a numerical value that quantifies how strong a lifter is in relation to their bodyweight. The "M" in M1 stands for "Metric" or "Multiplier," and the "1" typically denotes the primary, widely accepted, or official relative strength calculation used in a given federation or context.

This score allows for:

• Cross-category comparison: A 60kg lifter can be directly compared to a 120kg lifter.
• Inter-sex comparison: Male and female lifters can be evaluated on a common scale.
• Determining overall champions: "Best lifter" awards at competitions are almost always decided by the highest M1 score.

How M1 is Calculated: Common Formulas

The calculation of M1 involves applying a specific formula to two key pieces of data: the lifter's total weight lifted (sum of their best squat, bench press, and deadlift) and their bodyweight. While the concept of M1 is consistent, the exact formula used can vary between powerlifting federations and eras. The most common formulas include:

• Wilks Coefficient (or Wilks Formula): Historically, the most widely recognized and used formula. Developed by Robert Wilks, it uses a polynomial equation to generate a coefficient based on bodyweight. This coefficient is then multiplied by the lifter's total to produce their Wilks score (M1).
• IPF GL Points (Goodlift Points): The International Powerlifting Federation (IPF) adopted the IPF GL Points formula as its official scoring system, replacing Wilks. It is generally considered to be a more accurate representation of relative strength across different bodyweight categories, particularly at the extreme ends of the bodyweight spectrum.
• DOTS Score (Dynamic Objective Total Score): A newer formula gaining traction, developed by Tim Swords. Like IPF GL, it aims to refine the accuracy of relative strength comparisons, particularly addressing perceived biases in older formulas.

Regardless of the specific formula, the fundamental principle remains the same: a mathematical model adjusts a lifter's absolute total based on their bodyweight to yield a single, comparable M1 score.

The Purpose and Importance of M1

The significance of M1 in powerlifting extends beyond mere numbers:

• Fair Competition: It levels the playing field, allowing lifters of different sizes and sexes to compete for overall accolades.
• Best Lifter Awards: Most powerlifting meets award a "best male lifter" and "best female lifter" based on the highest M1 score, rather than simply the highest absolute total.
• Personal Progress Tracking: Lifters can use their M1 score to track their progress over time, even if their bodyweight fluctuates. An increase in M1 indicates improved relative strength.
• Strategic Training: For lifters aiming for overall awards, understanding M1 can influence training and competition strategy, sometimes leading to decisions about bodyweight management (e.g., cutting or gaining weight to optimize their M1 score).
• Benchmarking: M1 scores serve as a common benchmark for comparing strength levels across the sport globally.

M1 in Competition and Training

In a competition setting, after all lifts are completed, each lifter's total is calculated. Their bodyweight (taken at weigh-ins) is then used with the federation's chosen formula to generate their M1 score. These scores are then ranked to determine overall winners.

For lifters, understanding M1 means:

• Focusing on efficiency: Maximizing the total lifted while optimizing bodyweight for the best possible score.
• Long-term perspective: Recognizing that strength improvements, even without significant bodyweight changes, will reflect in a higher M1.
• Goal setting: Setting targets not just for absolute totals, but for M1 scores to achieve competitive standing against a broader field.

Conclusion: M1 as a Universal Powerlifting Language

M1 is a fundamental concept in modern powerlifting, serving as the universal language for comparing strength across the diverse spectrum of athletes who participate in the sport. By translating absolute strength into a relative score, M1 ensures equity, fosters competitive spirit, and provides a clear metric for athletes to track their progress and strive for overall excellence, irrespective of their bodyweight or sex. It underscores that true strength in powerlifting is often about how much you lift relative to yourself.