Couldn't figure out where else to post this, so thought I'd start a new topic.

I have been doing a 5x5 program since the beginning of August. I'm finding that, having added cardio in on my off days, my recovery is started to suffer. Squatting three times a week is fun, but I'm wondering if it might not be time to switch up.

Any recommendations on another strength program? I'm on track to hit my squat and deadlift goals for the year, and I won't compromise that. However, I suspect I can hit my goals training squat one time per week as opposed to three... after all, I'm only training deadlift once per week at present. I'm leaning toward either an upper/lower push/pull split, or else bodypart per day. My current thinking is to increase lifting sessions to four times per week (as opposed to my present three-week schedule).

Thoughts from the group? Or should I just increase rest days between each workout?

5/3/1.... it's what all the cool kids are do'n and i simply love it. i've made great progress with it. plus you have a ton of variation on the program.

It really depends on where you are on your lifts. If you're still making really linear gains (adding 5-10lbs to a lift per workout) then you might want to do your own split, possible a Push/Pull/Legs, or some variation of that because you will progress at your own rate.

If you aren't progressing every or nearly every workout I'd give 5/3/1 a try. It's tried and tested, it just has a slower progression.

That's just my opinion, but you have higher lifts than me so take it with a grain of salt.

Lot of props so far for 5/3/1. I had looked at it a number of months ago, but was under the impression that I would be better suited for it once I reached a "good" level of strength. For me, I guess that means having at least a 315 lb. deadlift and squat.

Blaze brought up an interesting point: I am progressing by five pounds every week on my squat and deadlift. Would 5/3/1 still be appropriate, or should I max out my weekly gains with something else that allows for recovery first? Then, once that seems to stale, switch to 5/3/1?

Thanks everyone. trav, I found Cephalic_Carnage's thread, I'll keep an eye on it. Also read through some of the posts over on the bodybuilding forum from Prof X, Alpha, etc on how they go to where they are. Alpha was a blast to read.

I'll take some time to think through it and figure out which direction... 5x5 for a while yet, or switch it up. Decisions, decisions!

x-what ever on 5/3/1. I will highly recommend buying the book. I tried it last year based only on the articles around the net only to find I did it wrong. Bought the book and am doing it the right way now, the gains are coming nicely.