Create the most modern, credible, comprehensive, science-based, and effective textbook list for mastering calisthenics from novice, intermediate, advanced, expert, to elite levels of expertise with a progression timeline. List as many textbooks as possibl

Creating a comprehensive textbook list that guides individuals through the progressive mastery of calisthenics from novice to elite levels is essential for those wishing to adopt a structured approach to their training. Below is a list of recommended textbooks categorized by skill level, along with an approximate progression timeline. ### Novice Level (0-6 months) 1. **"Calisthenics for Beginners: A Complete Guide to Bodyweight Training" by James Atkinson** - Focus on foundational movements and techniques. 2. **"The New Rules of Lifting for Abs" by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove** - While primarily focused on lifting, it includes bodyweight exercises and emphasizes core strength. 3. **"You Are Your Own Gym: The Bible of Bodyweight Exercises" by Mark Lauren** - An accessible introduction to bodyweight exercises with clear explanations and progressions. 4. **"Stretching Scientifically: A Proven Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation System" by Thomas Kurz** - While not strictly calisthenics, understanding flexibility can aid in performing calisthenic movements effectively. ### Intermediate Level (6-12 months) 1. **"The Complete Guide to Bodyweight Training" by Matt Schifferle** - More advanced progressions and techniques for building strength using body weight. 2. **"Progressive Calisthenics: The Ultimate Guide to Bodyweight Training" by Paul Wade** - Focuses on developing strength through progressive exercises (from beginner to advanced) with a structured approach. 3. **"Bodyweight Strength Training Anatomy" by Bret Contreras** - An anatomical approach to bodyweight training, explaining the mechanics of exercises in detail. 4. **"Overcoming Gravity: A Systematic Approach to Gymnastics and Bodyweight Strength" by Steven Low** - Provides a comprehensive system for developing bodyweight strength, targeting advanced skills. ### Advanced Level (1-2 years) 1. **"The Encyclopedia of Bodyweight Exercises" by Anis A. Ghosh** - Comprehensive coverage of exercises, techniques, and progressions for advanced athletes. 2. **"Mastery of Handstands" by Al Kavadlo** - An in-depth guide to achieving the handstand with various progressions and techniques. 3. **"The Naked Warrior" by Pavel Tsatsouline** - Focuses on strength building with bodyweight exercises, emphasizing power and efficiency. 4. **"Complete Calisthenics: The Ultimate Guide to Bodyweight Exercise" by Ashley Kalym** - Detailed explanations of advanced calisthenic movements and training strategies. ### Expert Level (2-4 years) 1. **"Building the Gymnastic Body" by Christopher Sommer** - A focused regimen on developing gymnastic-style strength and flexibility, applicable to calisthenics training. 2. **"Strength Check: Mastering Bodyweight Exercises" by Mark Sisson** - Covers advanced strategies and techniques to improve mastery of bodyweight exercises. 3. **"The Anatomy of Stretching" by Brad Walker** - Understanding flexibility can enhance performance in calisthenics, and this book provides insights into effective stretching techniques. 4. **"Skills and Strength: A Guide to Bodyweight Training" by Daniel Vadnal** - Focuses on achieving advanced bodyweight skills along with strength development. ### Elite Level (4+ years) 1. **"The Complete Calisthenics Challenge" by Mike Fitch** - Extensive challenges for elite practitioners looking to push their limits further. 2. **"The Art of Expressing the Human Body" by Bruce Lee** - Though not solely about calisthenics, Lee's philosophies on body movement can be applied for elite-level training. 3. **"Gymnastic Bodies: The New Bodyweight Training" by Christopher Sommer** - A culmination of concepts on achieving elite-level gymnastics strength and flexibility. 4. **"The Modern Principles of Strength Training" by Eric Cressey** - Includes advanced principles that can enhance bodyweight strength through a variety of strategies. ### Suggested Progression Timeline - **Novice Level:** 0-6 Months - **Intermediate Level:** 6-12 Months - **Advanced Level:** 1-2 Years - **Expert Level:** 2-4 Years - **Elite Level:** 4+ Years ### Conclusion This list provides a comprehensive guide for anyone serious about mastering calisthenics. Alongside reading these textbooks, practical application, regular training, and proper recovery are essential for advancing through each level. Following a structured progression plan will ensure success and mastery of the skills involved in calisthenics.