It has been said that "Orienteering is a test of intelligence, physical endurance and practical navigational skills". The goal of any Orienteer is to navigate his or herself to a fixed number of locations marked upon a map in a predefined order and as quickly as possible. Each competitor has nothing more than a detailed map and a compass to achieve this task. GPS satelite navigational or other electrical aids are not permitted!. One of many courses may be chosen, according to the competitor's age, experience and fitness. These typically range in length from one to about twelve kilometres in length.
At its most competitive, the sport offers a lot to an athlete who likes to think as well as run. More typically, it offers a recreational challenge to children and adults of all ages and fitness. At events that offer them, string courses are available for young children, of say under ten years. If you'd rather just practice your map reading skills, then you don't even have to run. In fact, it's often beneficial to concentrate on your map rather than improving your speed over the ground. Speed doesn't help you at all if you're running in the wrong direction!.
Orienteering events are primarily held in wood or parkland, either privately or publicly owned. Consequently they often allow you to explore and experience many attractive and pleasant areas.
