Develop a classic, comprehensive, science-based textbook list for mastering strength and conditioning at novice, intermediate, advanced, expert, and elite levels, including a detailed timeline for progression.

Creating a comprehensive and progressive textbook list for mastering strength and conditioning involves selecting quality resources that cover foundational theories, practical applications, and advanced methodologies. Below is a structured list of textbooks categorized by proficiency levels: novice, intermediate, advanced, expert, and elite. Additionally, I will provide a general timeline for progression, though individual pacing may vary based on background knowledge and practical experience.

### Novice Level (0-6 months)

1. **"Exercise Physiology: Theory and Application to Fitness and Performance" by Scott K. Powers and Edward A. Howley**
   - Introduces foundational concepts of exercise physiology and basic principles of training.

2. **"Strength Training Anatomy" by Frederic Delavier**
   - Provides visual and detailed illustrations of strength anatomy and exercises.

3. **"Starting Strength: Basic Barbell Training" by Mark Rippetoe**
   - Focuses on essential barbell exercises, technique, and programming for beginners.

4. **"The New Rules of Lifting" by Lou Schuler and Alwyn Cosgrove**
   - Covers foundational strength training principles, programming, and nutrition basics.

### Intermediate Level (6-18 months)

1. **"NSCA's Essentials of Personal Training" by Jared F. W. D. L. McGowan**
   - Provides an in-depth understanding of fitness assessment, program design, and training methods.

2. **"Practical Programming for Strength Training" by Mark Rippetoe & Andy Baker**
   - Focuses on programming designs and periodization for varying training goals.

3. **"Science and Practice of Strength Training" by Vladimir Zatsiorsky and William Kraemer**
   - Explores the principles of strength training from a scientific and practical perspective.

4. **"Periodization: Theory and Methodology of Training" by Tudor O. Bompa and G. Gregory Haff**
   - Offers insights into periodization models and their application in training cycles.

### Advanced Level (1.5 - 3 years)

1. **"Advanced Strength and Conditioning" by Ian Jeffreys**
   - Delves into advanced training techniques, programming, and exercise selection.

2. **"Functional Training for Sports" by James Cressey and Eric Cressey**
   - Combines strength training with functional movements and sport-specific conditioning.

3. **"High-Performance Training for Sports" by Bill Foran, et al.**
   - Introduces cutting-edge techniques and methodologies for elite performance training.

4. **"Designing Resistance Training Programs" by Fleck & Kraemer**
   - Focuses on designing comprehensive resistance training programs for various populations.

### Expert Level (3 - 5 years)

1. **"Programming and Coaching the Olympic Lifts" by U. S. A. Weightlifting**
   - In-depth guide on programming and coaching Olympic lifts.

2. **"Strength and Conditioning for Sports Performance" by Paul Comfort and Earle Abrahamson**
   - Covers applied strength and conditioning for enhancing athletic performance.

3. **"Biomechanics of Sport and Exercise" by Peter McGinnis**
   - Provides insights into the biomechanics related to sports and training.

4. **"The Science of Strength Training" by Brad Schoenfeld**
   - Explores current research and implications for strength training practice.

### Elite Level (5+ years)

1. **"Periodization Training for Sports" by Tudor Bompa and Carlo Buzzichelli**
   - Advanced periodization strategies for elite athletes.

2. **"Science and Practice of Strength Training, Second Edition" by Vladimir Zatsiorsky and William Kraemer**
   - More in-depth exploration of strength training science and advanced methodologies.

3. **"The Science of Coaching Strength and Conditioning" (various authors)**
   - A collection of the latest research in strength and conditioning coaching.

4. **"Athletic Development: The Art & Science of Functional Sports Conditioning" by Vernon Gambetta**
   - Discusses advanced concepts in functional training and athletic development.

### Recommended Timeline for Progression

- **Novice Level (0-6 months)**: Focus on learning technique, understanding basic physiology, and developing a consistent training routine.
- **Intermediate Level (6 months - 18 months)**: Begin programming, exploring more advanced techniques, and applying periodization principles.
- **Advanced Level (1.5 years - 3 years)**: Focus on specialized techniques, tailored programming for performance enhancement, and understanding the intricacies of training variables.
- **Expert Level (3 years - 5 years)**: Dive into the latest research, coaching methodologies, and start contributing knowledge to the field.
- **Elite Level (5+ years)**: Engage in advanced coaching, research, and practice, while possibly pursuing further education and certifications (e.g., CSCS, USA Weightlifting).

Keep in mind that this proposed timeline is flexible and can vary based on individual dedication, educational background, and opportunities for practical application and mentorship within the strength and conditioning community.