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(blowk @ Nov. 17 2007,21:00)</div><div id="QUOTEHEAD">QUOTE</div><div id="QUOTE">Thanks for the reply.
I'm trying to work out what is the most significant aspect of this part of the training: progressive loading to beyond the 5RM in weeks 6 or 7, or keeping up the frequency of training at the 5RM.
In either case, isn't it just best to decondition straight after the 6 week mark and then start another cycle? I don't fully understand how this part of the program fits in with the basic principles, so sorry if I seem really 'fick'
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The thing is blowk, the 5s are very effective muscle building weeks. The loads are at their highest which means more strain on the muscle tissue which, in turn, means a continued muscle building stimulus. Once you are at your 5RMs it is quite ok to continue using the same loads for a few more weeks as they will remain effective for at least that long.
As fearfactory said, it is quite a good idea to cluster reps, particularly after the initial work set. That way you won't build up as much fatigue over the course of the week and it will help prevent having to drop off your volume.
If you have gained strength over the cycle you can find out in the post-5s (ie. after the first two weeks of 5s) by increasing your 5RM loads where possible.