Meet Attempt Selector
Plan your opener, second, and third attempts for a powerlifting meet. Get smart attempt selection based on your training maxes with projected totals.
Inputs
Results
Best-Case Total (3rd attempts)
1,065 lb
≈ 6 adults
Projected Total (2nd attempts)
1,002.5 lb
≈ 6 adults
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your Training Maxes for Squat, Bench Press, and Deadlift in pounds.
- Review opener, second, and third attempt recommendations for all three lifts.
- Use the Conservative Total (opener attempts) as your guaranteed minimum.
- Aim for the Projected Total (second attempts) as your realistic meet goal.
- Only attempt the Best-Case Total (third attempts) if all second attempts go smoothly.
How the result changes with Deadlift Training Max
| Deadlift Training Max | Best-Case Total (3rd attempts) | Projected Total (2nd attempts) |
|---|---|---|
| 206 | 842.5 lb | 792.5 lb |
| 482 | 1,125 lb | 1,057.5 lb |
| 813 | 1,462.5 lb | 1,375 lb |
| 1,090 | 1,745 lb | 1,642.5 lb |
What each input means
- Squat Training Max
- Your best squat in training with good form. Not a grinder — use a weight you could hit on any day.
- Bench Training Max
- Your best paused bench press in training. Competition rules require a pause command.
- Deadlift Training Max
- Your best deadlift in training. This is your last lift at the meet — strategy matters most here.
How this is calculated
Worked example, using the default values
- Identify Input ParametersSquat Training Max = 365, Bench Training Max = 255, Deadlift Training Max = 425 = 3 input(s) provided
- Calculate Best-Case TotalBest-Case Total1065 = 1065
- Calculate Projected TotalProjected Total1002.5 = 1002.5
- Calculate Conservative TotalConservative Total940 = 940
- Calculate Squat OpenerSquat Opener = squat.opener327.5 = 327.5
Engine last updated . Checked against 2 independently-derived tests — how we verify calculators.
Related Calculators
The questions that sit next to this one — chosen by subject, including calculators filed under a different category.
Wilks Score Calculator
Calculate your Wilks coefficient to compare powerlifting strength across body weight classes. Uses the official Wilks formula for both male and female lifters.
Strength TrainingPlate Loading Calculator
Find the exact plate combination to reach your target barbell weight. Shows plates per side using standard plate sizes (45, 25, 10, 5, 2.5 lb).
Strength TrainingPeriodization Planner
Plan volume and intensity progression across a training cycle using linear or undulating periodization. See weekly weight, set, and rep targets based on your 1RM.
More in Health & Fitness.