Swim, bike, run, relax – in that order! Triathlons are seen as one of the greatest tests of human endurance; a powerful sport that inspires transformation and challenges deep into your mind, body and soul. With New Year’s hovering in the near distance and a list of resolutions declaring to be healthier, more active and kinder to oneself, there’s no better time than now to kick off your pledges and immerse yourself into a new environment by training for a triathlon.

There are plenty of tri-events on the Sunshine Coast that will motivate and delight local hopefuls. Here are four Sunny Coast Triathlons you shouldn’t miss in 2014.

Noosa Triathlon

Every year, thousands of national and international contenders flock to this luxurious part of the Queensland coast to compete in Australia’s largest triathlon and Multi Sport Festival. While there is an array of sporting events to enjoy, the triathlon remains the biggest drawcard; a gruelling event that features a 1,500 metre swim, followed by a whopping 40 kilometre cycle and finishing with 10 kilometre run. There’s something for everyone in this triathlon, with plenty of kids events if you’re looking to get the little ones involved. The next Noosa Triathlon takes place on Sunday the 2nd of November 2014, and the cut off for registration is the 30th of May 2014.

Sunshine Coast Ironman 70.3

The IRONMAN championship has only graced the sandy shores of Mooloolaba for the first time in 2013, but it will be back, bigger than ever in 2014. Already a popular tourist destination, Mooloolaba Esplanade provides a relaxed backdrop for this big event – you only have to sit and watch for a few minutes at Mooloolaba before a band of runners glide by.

The 1.9 kilometre swim, 90 kilometre bike ride and 21.1 kilometre run is set to be a huge annual event for the area. Have you got what it takes? Start your training now for September 2014’s IRONMAN event.

Triathlon Pink

Ladies listen up! Here is a triathlon just for you. Triathlon Pink, in association with National Breast Cancer Foundation, McGrath Foundation, and Breast Cancer Network Australia, is a wonderful initiative for the Australian women’s sporting community. The aim of the event is to encourage competitors to challenge, participate and have fun while raising funds for a worthy cause. Triathlon Pink takes place at the newly developed Stockland Park in Kawana annually, kicking off in November 2014.

Gatorade Queensland Tri Series

Boasting a 400 metre swim, 15 kilometre bike ride and 4 kilometre run, the Gatorade Queensland Tri Series is an ideal starting point for those novice triathletes looking to test the waters. Taking place in February 2014, QLD Tri hopes to light up and excite the locals of Caloundra. Entries close on the Wednesday prior to the event weekend, so book now before to ensure a spot.

What are you waiting for? The benefits of a triathlon are universal, so dust off your bike and lace up your tri-shoes for the upcoming Sunshine Coast triathlon season.