Woodland and moorland maps are usually at 1:10,000 (1 cm on map = 100 metres on the ground) or 1:15,000 scale (1 cm om map = 150 m on ground), giving a slightly less detailed view of a bigger area of terrain. Urban maps are usually at 1:4000 scale (every centimetre on the map is 40 metres on the ground), or sometimes 1:5000, showing lots of detail around buildings.

Orienteering races take place in many types of terrain including woodland, moorland and urban areas. This is all explained in more detail in the Basic Navigation Routine section. Plan, Picture, Direction – 3 simple steps! Fold the map, and move your thumb along keeping track of where you are. Note key features you pass on the way and relate them to the map as you go. I will see the control where the path crosses a stream.ģ Direction – Head in the right Direction following the map always keeping it orientated to north with the compass so it matches the terrain around you. For example – I will follow a path to a junction and turn into the woodland from the open land on another path. Try to follow hand rails such as paths.Ģ Picture – identify what you will see on the way. To get round an orienteering course successfully, for each leg of the course you should:ġ Plan – Make a Plan before you set off.

To help you put these ideas into practice, Better Orienteering uses a simple model of 3 steps to think about when navigating – Plan, Picture, Direction Plan, Picture, Direction – 3 steps to successful orienteering They will help you be confident to go and try orienteering. The absolute basics for beginners are demonstrated with examples of people using the skills in urban and park areas on beginner’s courses.

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