switch between 5x5 and 6-8 rep sets?

[skinnyfromtoptobottom]

Hi.
I need a program to gain size and strength whereas size is still more important. since you can't do a program for longer than 8 weeks, i'll have to switch programs.
what do you think about a switch between a 5x5 program and a program with 6-8 rep sets? by doing this i would always train for size and strength and i wouldn't have to do an endurance program after a size/strength program. or is this essential that i do an endurance program after a size/strength program? maybe my muscles need a rest from hard training?

so, what do you think is best when training for size/strength:

1) 5x5 (6-8 weeks) -- 6-8 rep sets (6-8 weeks) -- 5x5 (6-8 weeks) -- 6-8 rep sets (6-8 weeks) -- ...

2) 6-8 rep sets (6-8 weeks) -- endurance (4-6 weeks) -- 6-8 rep sets (6-8 weeks) -- endurance (4-6 weeks) -- ...

3) 5x5 (6-8 weeks) -- endurance (4-6 weeks) -- 5x5 (6-8 weeks) --endurance (4-6 weeks) -- ...

 

[Tarheel]

You're on the right track with changing up programs, but it doesn't always have to be 8 weeks. Sometimes I've lifted for 6 weeks on a program, sometimes up to 10. My current program happens to be 8

I gained a lot of strength on 5x5, but not as much size as I expected. If I were you I'd do my compound movements first, and do 5x5 with them. So Flat bench, 5x5. On other chest work like flies or dips or pullovers, I'd do 2 or 3 sets of 8-10.

That would be a good way to get balance in a single training program. Go heavy with the 5x5 for your first exercise (and make it a good compound exercise). Then on your more isolation exercises (lateral raises, leg press, french press or tricep extensions) do sets around 8. Sometimes you wont get 8 and you'll only push out 6 or 7, sometimes you'll grunt out 9 or 10.