Questions about volume training

[marino]

I am 4 weeks into a 5x5 training program. I plan on running weeks 6-8 as 3x3 with heavier weights. I was planning on then going back and backing off the weight a bit and starting this program over and run it for 16 weeks total. I have never ran a volume training program for more than 2 months in the past, so should I take a week off and just do cardio after the intial 8 weeks or just go ahead with my plan and eat a ton and grow?

training is as follows
monday workout A
squats 5x5
flat bench 5x5
bent over rows 5x5
triceps (pressdowns)3x 5-8 reps

wednesday wourkout B
squats 5x5
standing shoulder press 5x5
deads 5x5
wide grip pullups 5x5
bicep curls 3x 5-8reps

friday same as monday

next week monday/friday workout B

wednesday workout A

[GYMBRAT]

I love the 5x5 program, 3x3 is a good mass builder also, I usually run them for a 2-3 mth period and take my 5 day break with a half hr of cardio eod....I have yet to relieve myself of easing off on the go heavy or go home theory yet since ive started 20+ or so yrs ago....

gotta go by what your body is telling you is how I lift

[faller]

Just go ahead, don't take any time off. If you feel you're not ready to jump into the volume phase after the the Deload and peak 3x3 do a pure deload for as long as needed to recover.

[LondonMuscle]

due to the continuous heavy loading id definitely consider backing off the poundages periodically but you dont have to actually take time off of the gym

with the loading you have suggested id probably back down every 4 or 5th week then resume the program... so do 4 weeks with what you have suggested above, then back off for a week with some higher rep training (10-12 reps) then do your program again but change up the exercises