That’s how I use it, based on Doug Hepburn. I do well on his different programs and I find them easy to auto-regulate. I’m not familiar with other 5x5 programs because I’ve never had a need for them and usually ramp up to daily work maxes in lower rep ranges. If you’re a beginning lifter I suggest just picking a beginners program that resonates with you and do it as is (although I wouldn’t recommend combining front and back squats if you’re not familiar with either).
I’m sure there are 5x5 programs that have you stick with the 5 reps while only increasing weight. Key for a beginning lifter is to sustain your beginners gains for as long as possible without stalling , so adding only a rep or slight weight increase at a time keeps things going. With 5x3 going to 5x5 and then increasing weight it’s a bit easier to sustain your beginners momentum (especially if you’re not too greedy in your pursuit to max out), but that’s just my opinion.
here’s some info on Hepburn’s programs to give you a clearer idea:
(interestingly I just posted those links on another forum post)
Don’t worry too much about rest intervals. Best to learn to auto-regulate. This means some initial trial and error. Just rest until you feel you can do another set (within reason of course). Usually you’ll notice that on days that you’re fresher you’ll be able to use shorter rests and on other days you may need longer if you’re a bit thrashed. Learn to go with the flow on that (with the exception that sometimes you need to push yourself a bit harder but that comes with experience).
Lift heavy, eat well, rest enough, get big.
Good luck