Introduction to Orienteering

• Orienteering is finding various checkpoints in a pre-set course using a detailed map and a compass in unfamiliar terrain.
• The activity can be recreational or competitive, requiring navigational and decision-making skills.
• On a map, the start is marked with a triangle
• Circles mark locations, and double circles mark the final destination.
• GPS can help locate unfamiliar places until its power runs out.

History of Orienteering

• Orienteering started in Scandinavia as a military skill.
• In 1886, it meant "crossing unknown grounds" using maps and compasses.
• The first orienteering match occurred in Norway in 1897.
• Major Ernst Killander of Sweden designed a cross-country competition in 1919 where participants chose routes using a map and compass.
• In 1941-1943, PILTTI HEISKANEN, a Finnish Army Officer, set up orienteering activities at Dartmouth College.
• The International Orienteering Federation formed in Copenhagen, Denmark, in 1961, with founding members from various European countries.
• The first World Orienteering Championships was in Finland in 1966.
• Orienteering became part of the U.S. Marine Corps Physical Fitness Academy in Quantico, Virginia, in 1967.
• The first U.S. Orienteering Championships was at Southern Illinois University in Oct. 1970.
• The U.S. Orienteering Federation was founded in Virginia in 1971.
• In 1988, orienteering became a U.S. Olympic Committee Class C Sport.

Essential Equipment

• The two basic things required are a map and a compass.
• Essentials and Equipment:
• A whistle is to call for help.
• A map bag is used to protect the map from rain.
• A red pen can mark the map.
• Map: A two-dimension representation of a three-dimension surface.
• Types of Maps:
• Locator maps show locations inside a mall.
• Highway maps identify roads.
• Topographic maps show terrains.
• Orienteering maps are specially designed and topographic maps with more details for navigation.
• Important details include the map scale, legends, and lines representing magnetic north.
• Distance on a Map: Maps are scaled (e.g., 1:10,000, 1:15,000, or 1:25,000).
• Scale: A ratio where 1:25,000 means one unit of distance on the map equals 25,000 units in the real world.

Compass Components

• Scales/Rulers
• Direction of Travel Arrow (DTA)
• Orienting Arrow
• Declination Scale
• Dial with Degrees
• Index Line
• Magnetic Needle
• Orienting Lines
• Rotating Housing
• Base Plate

Using a Compass

• Put the compass on your palm at stomach level.
• Position the compass so that the DTA is pointing straight out in front of you.
• Turn yourself until the magnetic needle aligns with the north magnetic orienting arrow.
• Check where the DTA is pointing to know the direction.
• Follow this direction, keeping the magnetic needle aligned.

Map Legends

• Map legends are important as they describe terrain, roads, buildings using symbols.
• Contours or lines show the shape and elevation.
• Close contours mean a steep slope
• Further contours mean a gradual slope.
• Most maps have 5m contours, meaning 5 vertical meters between each line.
• Map color symbols:
• Blue: water
• Black: rock and man-made
• White: normal woods
• Green: thick vegetation
• Yellow: non-wooded land
• Brown: natural non-rock

Getting Lost

• Stay calm and take a break.
• Look for recognizable features and check the map.
• Check the compass and map for the direction.
• Go to a safety azimuth or prominent feature and reorient yourself.
• Use the whistle if needed.

Health and Community Benefits

• Improves cardiovascular strength and decision-making skills.
• Provides mental and physical exertion.
• Increases self-esteem.
• Socialize while competing.

Hiking and Trekking

• Hiking is a long walk on trails in the countryside.
• Walking includes all forms of walking.
• Bushwalking is unique to Australia.
• Tramping defines a long walk/hike in New Zealand.
• Romeo Roberto "Romi" Garduce was the first Filipino to climb the Seven Summits.

Mountaineering

• Mountaineering is climbing to attain high points in mountainous regions for pleasure.
• Alpinism defines it in the European context.
• Mountains are described by height and graded by challenges.
• Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) describes mountain terrains according to physical difficulties.
• National Classification System describes the nature of a climb.

Physical Conditioning for Hiking and Trekking

• Be in good health and fit.
• Exercise three times a week.
• Treks require pre-conditioning.
• Increase glycogen through carbohydrates.

Trip Planning Factors

• Research location based on skill level and limitations.
• Weather conditions, terrains, trails, and requirements.
• Seek advice and inform others.

Hiking Essentials

• Backpack loaded between 25%-30% of ideal body weight to minimise strain.
• Internal-frame backpacks are body-hugging and stable for uneven terrain
• External-frame backpacks carry heavy loads and offer good ventilation.
• Clothing.
• Good footwear with a good fit is number one.

Types of Footwear

• Hiking shoes are light and flexible for well-defined trails and shorter hikes.
• Hiking boots give more support for longer, rougher terrain.
• Backpacking boots are for carrying heavy loads in all conditions.

Additional useful Trekking Equipment

• Trekking poles aid people with knee problems, and provide lateral stability, and can act as tent pole.
• Calorie intake: food with carbs, proteins and fats- fat is slow burning fuel for aerobic activities.
• The body needs 1-2 liters of water a day, or an extra liter every 4-5 miles.
• Drink 1/2 to 1 cup every 30-45 minutes.
• Eat small amounts frequently, such as nuts and dried fruit.
• Check wildlife safety.
• First Aid Kit
• Water / Hydration Packs
• Trail food (energy food)
• Topographic map and Compass
• Fire-starters and matches
• Multi-tool or knife
• Flashlight/headlamp and batteries
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Insect repellant
• Camera/binoculars
• Cellphone/two-way radios
• GPS/altimeter watches
• Extra batteries for mobile devices/memory card

Foundational hiking skill

• Base the pace on how well your body feels
• Keep in mind “Leave No Trace Seven Principles”
• Prioritize self and other's saftey, and basic First Aid Skills