ABOUT THE 5X5 MUSCLE WORKOUT PROGRAM: The 5×5 routine has been around a long while. This routine focuses on core exercises and leaves out all the smaller, isolated movements. It’s not a “train to failure” routine, rather the focus is to build strength, get stronger and in turn get bigger. You basically do 5 sets, with 5 repetitions, for each exercise, and usually there are only 3 main exercises you perform. Here is one example of the 5 x 5 routine:   WORKOUT A SQUAT 5 X 5 BENCH PRESS  5 X 5 BARBELL ROW 5 X 5   WORKOUT B SQUAT 5 X 5 OVERHEAD PRESS 5 X5 DEADLIFT 5 X 5 This is usually prescribed to be performed on a MON – WED – FRI basis; alternating between doing workout A and then Workout B two days later, and so forth. For some trainees this can be too much, and they may choose to do it twice a week (MON workout A and THUR. workout B for example). Also of note, for those trainees that are addicted to direct bicep and calf work, I’ve seen 5×5 muscle workout programs which, in additionto the above exercises, will also include: Bicep Curl 2×20 Calf Raise 2×20   DOES IT WORK?: (Good – Very Good  – or Excellent?) The 5×5 workout does work very good specifically for getting stronger and for putting on size. Most use this workout in conjunction with a bulking diet. However, many trainees don’t stick with this routine forever. Matter of fact this is one of the most common routines trainees turn to when they are getting burned out and need to switch up their routine to something completely different and more basic.