Generate the most credible, comprehensive, and efficient guidelines for mastering triathlons from novice to advanced. Be as detailed as possible.

Mastering triathlons is a multifaceted journey that integrates swimming, cycling, and running into a coherent training regimen. This guide offers comprehensive and actionable strategies for athletes at all levels—from novice to advanced—to refine their skills, enhance performance, and prepare for competitive events.

### Overview of Triathlon Training

**1. Understanding the Triathlon:**
   - **Distinctions of Events:**
     - Sprint: 750m swim, 20km bike, 5km run.
     - Olympic: 1.5km swim, 40km bike, 10km run.
     - Half Ironman: 1.9km swim, 90km bike, 21.1km run.
     - Ironman: 3.8km swim, 180km bike, 42.2km run.

### Phase 1: Novice Training (0-6 months)

**Goal: Building a foundation of fitness across all three disciplines.**

#### 1. General Fitness Assessment
   - Conduct a fitness test for swimming, cycling, and running (e.g., 400m swim, 5km run).
   - Determine your fitness level to tailor the training plan.

#### 2. Training Schedule
   - **Weekly Structure:**
     - **3 Swim Sessions:** Work on technique and endurance.
     - **3 Bike Sessions:** Focus on endurance and developing cycling strength.
     - **3 Run Sessions:** Include intervals and long runs.
     - **1 Brick Session:** (Bike+Run) to adapt to transitions.
     - **1 Rest Day:** Prioritize recovery.

#### 3. Key Workouts
   - **Swimming:**
     - Technique drills focusing on form (catch-up drill, breathing technique).
     - Build to 1000m continuous swim.
   - **Cycling:**
     - Start with short rides, gradually increase to 60-90 minutes.
     - Include a weekly long ride and interval training (e.g., 1 min hard, 2 min easy).
   - **Running:**
     - Begin with a mix of running and walking, increasing to 30-45 min runs.
     - Introduce interval training (e.g., 400m repeats).
  
#### 4. Strength and Conditioning
   - **Core Workouts:** Planks, bridges, and rotational exercises.
   - **Cross-Training:** Use activities like yoga or pilates to improve flexibility and core strength.

**5. Equipment Essentials:**
   - Invest in a good pair of running shoes, a quality road bike, and basic swim gear (swimsuit, goggles, and cap).

### Phase 2: Intermediate Training (6-12 months)

**Goal: Enhance endurance, technique, and speed. Begin to learn transitions.**

#### 1. Training Schedule
   - **Weekly Structure:**
     - **4-5 Swim Sessions:** Incorporate speed sets and open water practice.
     - **4 Bike Sessions:** Longer rides with hill training and time trials.
     - **4 Run Sessions:** Tempo runs and long runs.
     - **1-2 Brick Sessions:** Include at least one long brick per month.
     - **1 Rest Day:** Prioritize proper nutrition and sleep.

#### 2. Key Workouts
   - **Swimming:**
     - Introduce endurance sets (200-400m repeats).
     - Practice open water swimming tactics (sighting, drafting).
   - **Cycling:**
     - Include hill repeats to build strength.
     - Participate in a local cycling class for endurance.
   - **Running:**
     - Focus on building to longer runs (10-15 km).
     - Integrate long runs with variations (negative splits).

#### 3. Transitions
   - **Practice Transition Drills:**
     - Set up a mock transition area; practice cycling to running.
     - Focus on efficiency in changing gear and hydration.

#### 4. Nutrition
   - Learn basic race nutrition. Practice fueling on long rides/runs (gels, drinks, solids).
   - Hydration strategies specific to weather conditions.

### Phase 3: Advanced Training (12+ months)

**Goal: Refine racing strategy, enhance peak performance, and integrate mental toughness.**

#### 1. Training Schedule
   - **Weekly Structure:**
     - **4-5 Swim Sessions:** Incorporate speed sets with pace clocks.
     - **4-5 Bike Sessions:** Include specific intervals, tempo rides, and long rides.
     - **4 Run Sessions:** Speed work with specific race pace practice.
     - **1 Comprehensive Brick Session:** Mix distances as per race distances.
     - **1 Recovery Day:** Emphasizing mobility work.

#### 2. Key Workouts
   - **Swimming:**
     - Practice pacing strategies for races.
     - Master techniques for weather conditions on race day.
   - **Cycling:**
     - Engage in racing efforts to simulate race conditions.
     - Conduct power meter sessions (if available).
   - **Running:**
     - Develop race pace, with specific workouts geared towards distance.
     - Incorporate mental strategies for tough runs.

#### 3. Mental Training
   - Employ visualization techniques to anticipate race day scenarios.
   - Develop mindfulness strategies to handle race stress.
   - Set specific performance goals (time or position-based).

#### 4. Race Strategy
   - Conduct rehearsals, simulating full race conditions (training swims, rides, and runs).
   - Strategize pacing for each leg and understand personal strengths and weaknesses.

### Additional Considerations

**1. Gear and Technology:**
   - Invest in triathlon-specific gear (suit, bike, and running shoes).
   - Consider using a smartwatch for tracking workouts and analytics.

**2. Community and Support:**
   - Join local triathlon clubs for camaraderie and additional support.
   - Engage with a coach for personalized insights and strategies.

**3. Recovery and Adaptation:**
   - Implement a proactive recovery routine with stretching, foam rolling, and regular rest.
   - Monitor performance metrics to adjust training based on progress or fatigue.

### Conclusion

Mastering triathlons requires a pragmatic and personalized approach to training. Emphasize continuous improvement through structured training, focus on nutrition, strengthen your mentality, and embrace the triathlon community. Remember that dedication, consistency, and patience are key to transcending from novice to advanced levels in this challenging and rewarding sport.