One of the most popular muscle building programs today is the 5x5 program. It is an intense workout program which is aimed at building muscle mass and should be performed three times per week and provides muscle growth and essential recovery. It was created especially for strength athletes with the purpose to increase their strength. But along with the increased strength you will notice the muscle growth but it is also crucial to consume enough calories which can support this growth. However this program requires the existence of a good training base. Its intensity an volume are higher so if your body is not used to training with higher loads it may result in having a hard time recovering and overtraining.  The 5X5 program specializes in periodization which means that your need to change your workout program as you progress through it. You should constantly change the stimulus and increase your strength through challenging your muscles each week. But you will also have enough recovery time during an easier week which can help you avoid overtraining.
This program lasts 7-9 weeks and involves 4-6 weeks of preparatory workout and a peak phase which lasts the rest 3 weeks. As the full cycle is completed you should perform one week workout with low intensity or even take a week to rest completely. Prep Workout
During the first week of your training program it is very important to allow your body to get accustomed to this type of workout. You haven't used this program before that's why it is crucial to let the adaptation to take place. Choosing Your Weight:
You need to choose a weight which you can hold for a total of 5 sets with 5 reps during this week. However your weight shouldn't be too light (you mustn't feel that you can do a lot more than that) but likewise it shouldn't be so hard that you are not able to complete the given workout session.
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