I think I get the idea. A 5x5 or a 3x5 program is designed to work on your mass and strength more than a split because of the intensity.

I remember a coach at my gym telling me that unless I go heavy on the bench I wouldn't see "a big chest." I think he nailed it. The aim is to go heavy and with a 3x5 program I have better chances to do that since I've tried Rippetoe's routine before and I did see some great strength gains sans the mass because my diet wasn't good.

This time around I plan to do cardio, abs and some bicep work. I'll hopefully create a journal soon.