Create a modern, credible, and comprehensive guide and textbook list to master CrossFit from novice to elite levels. Include detailed guidelines and an estimated timeline for each level: novice, intermediate, advanced, expert, and elite.

# Comprehensive Guide to Mastering CrossFit: From Novice to Elite

CrossFit is a high-intensity fitness program that combines elements of weightlifting, cardiovascular exercise, and gymnastics. To progress from novice to elite, a structured approach that incorporates skill development, strength training, nutrition, and recovery is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide segmented into five levels: novice, intermediate, advanced, expert, and elite, along with an estimated timeline and recommended resources at each stage.

## Level 1: Novice (0-6 months)

### Goals:
- Understand basic movements.
- Build foundational strength and endurance.
- Develop good form and consistency.

### Guidelines:
- Attend CrossFit classes 3-4 times per week.
- Focus on mastering basic movements: squats, deadlifts, presses, pull-ups, and basic gymnastic movements (e.g., push-ups, sit-ups).
- Gradually increase intensity and volume.
- Introduce some cardiovascular training (running, rowing, etc.).

### Estimated Timeline:
- **Months 1-2:** Focus on form, basics, and conditioning.
- **Months 3-6:** Start increasing weights and intensity.

### Recommended Resources:
- **Books:** 
  - "The CrossFit Level 1 Training Guide" by CrossFit, Inc.
  - "Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training" by Mark Rippetoe.
- **Online Courses:** 
  - CrossFit Level 1 Certificate Course.

## Level 2: Intermediate (6 months - 2 years)

### Goals:
- Begin specializing in strength and conditioning.
- Continue improving movement efficiency and scaling workouts.
- Introduce Olympic weightlifting and more complex gymnastic skills.

### Guidelines:
- Increase to 4-5 classes per week focusing on different aspects each day (strength, metabolic conditioning, skill work).
- Start incorporating accessory work to strengthen weak areas.
- Participate in local competitions to gain experience.

### Estimated Timeline:
- **Months 6-12:** Focus on developing strength and proficiency in Olympic lifts.
- **Year 1-2:** Begin pulling together all aspects of fitness with varied programming.

### Recommended Resources:
- **Books:**
  - "The CrossFit Training Guide" by CrossFit, Inc.
  - "Olympic Weightlifting: A Complete Guide for Athletes and Coaches" by Greg Everett.
- **Online Resources:**
  - CrossFit Journal articles on different movements and training methodologies.

## Level 3: Advanced (2 - 4 years)

### Goals:
- Refine technique in complex movements.
- Improve overall physical capacity.
- Begin to increase intensity and volume further.

### Guidelines:
- Attend classes 5-6 times per week with a balanced focus on weightlifting, metcons, and gymnastics.
- Start implementing a periodized training program focusing on specific skills weekly.
- Include mobility and recovery practices (yoga, foam rolling).

### Estimated Timeline:
- **Years 2-3:** Continue improving technique and capacity.
- **Year 3-4:** Start focusing on specific weaknesses.

### Recommended Resources:
- **Books:**
  - "The Supple Leopard" by Kelly Starrett.
  - "Chasing Excellence: A Story About Building the Future" by Ben Bergeron.
- **Online Courses:**
  - Catalyst Athletics Olympic Weightlifting Course.
  
## Level 4: Expert (4 - 6 years)

### Goals:
- Compete at higher level competitions.
- Achieve personal records in various lifts and workouts.
- Master advanced gymnastic movements (muscle-ups, handstand walks).

### Guidelines:
- Train 6+ days a week with a focus on volume and specificity.
- Incorporate advanced training techniques (e.g., EMOMs, AMRAPs, complexes).
- Focus on nutrition (macronutrient timing) and mental strategy for competition.

### Estimated Timeline:
- **Years 4-5:** Compete in local and regional competitions.
- **Year 5-6:** Focus on peaking for major events and refining mental game.

### Recommended Resources:
- **Books:**
  - "The Complete Guide to CrossFit" by Michael McCoy.
  - "How to Eat, Move and Be Healthy" by Paul Chek.
- **Online Resources:** 
  - CompTrain programming by Ben Bergeron.

## Level 5: Elite (6+ years)

### Goals:
- Compete at the national or international level.
- Optimize physical performance and mental resilience.
- Become knowledgeable in coaching others.

### Guidelines:
- Tailor training to be sport-specific; vary programming to peak for events.
- Regularly revisit and refine all skills and strengths.
- Continue studying and implementing recovery methods.

### Estimated Timeline:
- **Year 6+:** Grasp all elements of competition, both physical and mental.
- Regularly reassess goals and adjust training accordingly.

### Recommended Resources:
- **Books:**
  - "The CrossFit Games Rulebook" for comprehensive rules and standards.
  - "Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual" by Jocko Willink.
- **Seminars:**
  - Attend advanced CrossFit coaching and athlete development seminars.

## Conclusion

CrossFit is a discipline that demands dedication, persistence, and adaptability. Progressing from novice to elite requires time, effort, and a commitment to learning and improvement. Use this guide and accompanying resources to systematically build your skills, knowledge, and performance in CrossFit. Each athlete will have a unique journey, so adjust timelines and goals as necessary to fit individual circumstances. Happy training!