Why look at ratios?
Your three lifts share most of their muscles, so an unusual gap between them often points at a specific weakness rather than a general lack of strength. A deadlift barely heavier than the squat, for example, often points at the posterior chain or back position.
The ranges shown are landmarks observed among trained powerlifters: bench around 60 to 80 % of squat, deadlift around 100 to 125 % of squat, overhead press around 55 to 70 % of bench.
What ratios don't tell you
Build matters a lot: long arms help the deadlift and hurt the bench, a long torso helps the squat. A ratio outside the range is not a problem in itself if it matches your build.
Use the result to steer a training block (more volume on the lagging lift, targeted variations), then check the effect over months rather than a single test day.
Frequently asked questions
Should I use tested or estimated maxes?
Either works, as long as all three lifts use the same method. A recent e1RM is often more representative than an old PR.
Are the ratios the same for women?
Women tend to bench less relative to their squat: a bench/squat ratio around 55 to 65 % is common and not necessarily a weakness.
My squat is weak compared with my deadlift, what now?
Add squat volume (2 to 3 times a week), variations such as pause or front squats, and hip and ankle mobility work if depth is limited.
What's a normal squat to bench ratio?
Among trained powerlifters, the bench is often 60 to 80 % of the squat. Below that, the bench is probably your weak point.
Should my deadlift be heavier than my squat?
Usually yes, by 0 to 25 % for men. A deadlift lighter than the squat is rare and often points at back strength or start position.
How do I find my weak point in powerlifting?
Compare your lifts with this tool, then look at where the bar slows down or stalls in the lift: those are the two most reliable clues.