Generate the most classic, credible, science-based, comprehensive, and effective guidelines for mastering triathlons from novice, intermediate, advanced, to expert levels of expertise as quickly as possible with an estimated timeline. Be as detailed as po

Mastering triathlons requires a strategic, science-based approach tailored to your current skill level. Below is a comprehensive guideline for progressing from novice to expert, along with estimated timelines for each level. 

### General Timeline Overview
- **Novice Level:** 0-6 months
- **Intermediate Level:** 6-12 months
- **Advanced Level:** 1-2 years
- **Expert Level:** 2+ years

### Novice Level (0-6 months)

#### Objectives:
- Develop a foundational fitness base.
- Learn the basics of swimming, cycling, and running.
- Complete a Sprint Triathlon.

#### Guidelines:
1. **Assess Your Base Fitness:**
   - Conduct a fitness assessment to understand your current abilities in swimming, cycling, and running.

2. **Set SMART Goals:**
   - Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound goals for a Sprint (typically 400m swim, 20km bike, 5km run).

3. **Training Plan:**
   - **Weekly Schedule:**
     - 3 swim sessions (focus on technique and endurance).
     - 3 bike sessions (include indoor and outdoor rides).
     - 3 run sessions (easy runs and strides).
   - **Cross-Training:** One day of strength training per week focusing on core and leg strength.
   - **Rest Days:** At least one complete rest day per week.
   
4. **Learn the Techniques:**
   - Hire a coach or join a triathlon club for swim biomechanic tips.
   - Practice cycling and running transitions to improve efficiency.

5. **Nutrition:**
   - Learn the importance of hydration and basic nutrition for endurance sports.
   - Start tracking your food intake to ensure adequate energy levels.

6. **Race Preparation:**
   - Participate in local clinic's for triathlon specifics.
   - Familiarize yourself with race-day logistics during a practice sprint tri.

### Intermediate Level (6-12 months)

#### Objectives:
- Improve speed and endurance across all disciplines.
- Complete an Olympic-distance triathlon.

#### Guidelines:
1. **Training Plan:**
   - **Weekly Schedule:**
     - 4 swim sessions (speed work and open water practice).
     - 4 bike sessions (long rides and tempo efforts).
     - 4 run sessions (intervals and longer runs).
   - **Brick Workouts:** At least one per week to practice transitions.

2. **Race Strategy:**
   - Develop pacing strategies for different race distances.
   - Practice different race day scenarios (nutrition timing, pacing).

3. **Strength Training:**
   - Continue strength training focusing on maintaining a strong core and injury prevention.

4. **Nuanced Nutrition:**
   - Experiment with race-day nutrition plans during long workouts.
   - Keep track of caloric and hydration needs.

5. **Track Progress:**
   - Use a training log or app to track workouts and mileage.
   - Adjust your plan based on performance analysis.

### Advanced Level (1-2 years)

#### Objectives:
- Increase distance and intensity.
- Aim for a Half Ironman or Ironman.

#### Guidelines:
1. **Training Structure:**
   - **Weekly Schedule:**
     - 5 swim sessions (focus on speed endurance).
     - 4-5 bike sessions (include hill repeats and long rides).
     - 4-5 run sessions (long runs and tempo runs).
   - **Periodization:** Use a training cycle that includes base, build, peak, and recovery phases.

2. **Advanced Techniques:**
   - Focus on advanced swimming techniques (drills, endurance).
   - Engage in intervals and tempo workouts on the bike and run.

3. **Mental Preparation:**
   - Work on mental strategies for pacing and endurance.
   - Use visualization techniques and mindfulness to prepare for race day.

4. **Gear Up:**
   - Invest in a high-quality bike, wetsuit, and shoes.
   - Get a professional bike fit to enhance performance.

5. **Target Key Races:**
   - Select and commit to races that challenge your limits.
   - Include a mix of shorter and longer races for preparation.

### Expert Level (2+ years)

#### Objectives:
- Compete competitively in Ironman and long-distance events.
- Focus on optimizing performance.

#### Guidelines:
1. **High-Intensity Training:**
   - **Weekly Schedule:**
     - 5-6 swim sessions (swim with a focus on speed work and race conditions).
     - 5-6 bike sessions (include long endurance rides and high-intensity training).
     - 5-6 run sessions (focusing on long tempo runs and speed work).
   - **Strength & Conditioning:** Regular sessions focused on functional strength and injury prevention.

2. **Recovery and Injury Prevention:**
   - Emphasize recovery techniques (soft tissue work, physiotherapy).
   - Implement regular assessments to minimize injury risk.

3. **Nutrition Optimization:**
   - Work with a sports nutritionist to customize your nutrition plans for training and races.
   - Implement race simulations during long training(to practice nutrition).

4. **Coaching:**
   - Consider hiring an experienced coach who can provide personalized training and strategy.
   - Use video analysis for swim technique improvement.

5. **Annual Planning:**
   - Plan an annual race calendar that includes a mix of competitive and training races.
   - Periodically review and adjust goals and training regimens based on progress.

### Conclusion
Triathlon mastery is a progression of skill, endurance, and mental fortitude. This plan provides structured, realistic steps tailored for athletes at any level. Consistency, dedication, and a willingness to learn are essential ingredients for success in triathlons. Regular assessments, goal setting, and adaptive strategies will ensure continuous improvement and long-term success in the sport.