Orienteering compass definition. To learn more about the sport, you can read this article.
Orienteering compass definition. Knowing the length of your pace is useful for many things such as estimating the width or height of large objects such as trees, rivers, or cliffs. Orienteering is the sport of navigation—often held in unfamiliar terrain—using a map and compass. Check meanings, examples, usage tips, pronunciation, domains, related words. Ultimately, the sport was born. For example, if you are planning to trek through the Rocky Mountains, you need to know how to reach the Cat Gap. It combines confidence-building exercises and builds physical fitness. It opens up the great outdoors, allowing you to explore landscapes with confidence and independence. BASE PLATE: The flat part of the compass; the magnifying lens, map scales, direction of travel arrow, and a hole for the neck cord are in this part. That is the case in all stages of orienteering skills development – it is about seeing what to do from the map and compass. Conclusion In conclusion, the main purpose of the orienteering lines on a compass is to accurately orient the compass to the map. The points on the Dec 29, 2024 · Read: How To Use A Topographic Maps Compass Navigation The compass is your trusted guide in orienteering. Since orienteering courses involve using a map and compass to reach the end, participants must become familiar with reading topographical maps, recognizing landmarks, and understanding compass directions. What is Orienteering? Orienteering is a sport in which orienteers use an accurate, detailed map and a compass to find points in the landscape. orienteering synonyms, orienteering pronunciation, orienteering translation, English dictionary definition of orienteering. Point out that N=360°, E=90°, S=180° and Who Invented Orienteering? A Swedish army officer named Major Ernst Killander invented Orienteering in the mid-nineteenth century. Describe the features of an orienteering compass. Click for English pronunciations, examples sentences, video. There are two main styles of orienteering compasses: the baseplate and the thumb compass. By definition, orienteering is a cross-country race in which participants use a highly detailed map and a compass to navigate their way between checkpoints along an unfamiliar course. A thumb oriented a compass is a great option for solo orienteering, because it can help you find a course quickly and accurately. Navigate your way through orienteering activities for beginners that are fun for everyone. Get your kids outside on an orienteering course. You can borrow a compass, electronic punch, and emergency whistle (if required) at the event. Orienteering terms, jargon and definitions Better Orienteering has tried to keep orienteering jargon to a minimum, but inevitably any sport developes its own useful terms and jargon. For example, if the map scale is 1:5000, this would mean that each 2 cm = 100 meters. How to Use an Orienteering Compass: A Step-by-Step Guide Step 1: Align the Edge of the Compass with the Map Place the orienteering compass on the map so that the edge of your compass is aligned with your current location and the desired destination. Orienteering is a sport for everyone, regardless of their background. If you like excitement, fresh air, and adventure, orienteering is the sport for you. This is because it combines trail running or hiking with map reading skills, planning and strategy. The competitive athlete can experience the exhilaration of running through the woods at top speed, while the recreational orienteer can enjoy the forest at a more leisurely pace. com is reader-supported. A compass is useful navigational tool that relies on magnetism to work. The An orienteering compass is a tool for finding your way. The basic idea in orienteering is to proceed from course start to finish by visiting a number of control points in a predetermined order with the help of map and compass. The actual term "orienteering" (Swedish: orientering) was first used in 1886 at the Swedish Military Academy Karlberg and meant the crossing of unknown land with the aid of a map and a compass. They act as a guide when aligning the compass with the map’s grid lines. Orienteering is an outdoor adventure activity involving navigation over unknown terrain, using a map and a compass. The needle is what makes the compass a compass. In 1895, orienteering competitions were held by the military garrisons in Stockholm and Oslo. You will become a pro at bearings after your first couple of orienteering events while working on the Orienteering Merit Badge along with working on your Second Class rank. The basics By definition orienteering is a sport involving a map and a compass, but that's not really very helpful for someone new to the sport. It then discusses how to take and follow bearings using a compass to navigate between landmarks. Some compasses contain elements of all three. Jun 17, 2021 · What is orienteering? Orienteering is often described as the thinking person’s run or walk. o′ri·en·teer′ n. Show how the compass housing can be rotated. There are many models of compasses available, although they all perform the same basic A baseplate compass, also known as an orienteering compass, is typically used for plotting and navigating in the outdoors. Orienteering is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or experience, but before you can try it, you need to know how to read a compass. Learning how to use a compass effectively is paramount to your success. Orienteering is a family of sports that requires navigational skills In orienteering a map and compass are used to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain, and normally moving at speed. Orienteering, outdoor competitive sport that is similar to cross-country running, but with emphasis on map-reading and direction-finding skills. 2. are all mapped in great detail and very accurately located. The arrow on the bottom of the capsule is used to align the user to the direction of travel and is normally paired with meridian lines which are used to orient the compass to the map. The document describes the main parts of an orienteering compass, including the magnetic needle, rotating compass housing, and transparent base plate. In contrast Orienteering - the Sport of a Lifetime Orienteering is the sport of navigation with map and compass. Indeed, it is quite possible to complete a basic level orienteering course without the aid of a compass. By understanding how to orient maps, take precise bearings, adjust for declination, and navigate terrain using attack points and handrails, you can confidently move through unfamiliar landscapes efficiently. The Orienteering Compass Map reading is definitely the primary skill required of an orienteer. Feb 21, 2022 · We cover what do all good orienteering compasses have, what two arrows should a good orienteering compass have, and the best compass model. Pelican breaks down a comprehensive guide on clubs, gear, strategies and generally what to expect on your first meet. Orienteering Arrow – The orienteering arrow is a drawn arrow located on the bottom of the capsule. Four terms that often come up together are "pris Feb 8, 2021 · Orienteering is a collection of sports that requires navigational skills and tools, such as a map and compass, to navigate from point to point. Learn about the navigational sport of orienteering: what it is, how to try it, where to find meets and your basic gear and clothing needs. May 15, 2025 · There are three main types of compasses: the basic compass, the sighting compass, and the baseplate (or orienteering) compass. Meaning of orienteering. Orienteering training combines technical skills development to efficiently navigate unfamiliar terrain with confidence and the physical conditioning necessary for speed, agility and endurance. The map is a very detailed map of a section of woods or parkland. It's a light-weight, economical compass well-suited for letterboxing, and this tutorial assumes you are using one. The list here… Define orienteering. Orienteering is a fascinating and adventurous outdoor sport that combines both physical and mental skill sets. It's easy to learn, but always challenging. Viktor runs the leg showing what you need to do. A compass is a tool that can keep you on track so you can walk in the wilderness and get to your desired location. The sport was developed as a training exercise for military personnel in Sweden, later evolving into a competitive sport of its own. If you are just starting out, it is recommended that you choose a simple baseplate compass. How to Orient a Map To orient a map means to line it up with the terrain, so that North on the map is pointing to North on the terrain. Magnetic Needle – A magnetized piece of medal floating in compass dial. Orienteering is navigating with a map and compass. What is Orienteering? Orienteering: A Sport for All Ages Orienteering is an adventure sport where participants navigate using a map and compass to find their way between control points of various natural and man-made features marked on a specially drawn map. “orientation”) was first used in 1886 and meant the crossing of unknown land with the aid of a map and a compass. Originally developed as a military training exercise, it has since evolved into a popular outdoor activity for Scouts, hikers, and adventure racers. An orienteering compass has a number of different functions. There is no marked route – the orienteer must navigate with map and compass while running. A sport in which contestants race on foot over a course consisting of checkpoints found with. Optional equipment may Familiarize yourself with orienteering map symbols and make sure you learn how to use a compass so you can orient yourself on a map without GPS. Try this exercise: 1. Long pants are typically recommended due to the vegetation. If you cannot see any landmarks, use the compass’s tiny lines to determine your direction. ORIENTEERING is part of the Boy Scout vocabulary and, by definition; orienteering is a cross-country race in which participants use a highly detailed map and a compass to navigate their way between checkpoints along an unfamiliar course. Practice taking accurate bearings, establishing your position, and maintaining a steady heading. Using Compass Bearings When you first start out orienteering, most of your navigation will be on trail and a compass is only needed to orient your map. It is used to guide a person when they are trekking or hiking. Orienteering Navigation through rough terrain using only a map and a compass. Follow the arrows to find the direction. Orienteering is a sport for everyone, regardless of age or experience. To do this, the orienteer needs to collect markers placed at each control site. What does orienteering mean? Information and translations of orienteering in the most comprehensive dictionary definitions resource on the web. It is located in the competition area; marked both on an orienteering map and in the terrain, and described on a control description sheet. net dictionary. Explain how a topographic map shows terrain features. The document also explains how Orienteering sports and a specific process of travel combine significant navigation. 4 days ago · By definition, orienteering is a cross-country race in which participants use a highly detailed map and a compass to navigate their way between checkpoints along an unfamiliar course. Most who take part in orienteering don’t have any background in navigation or compass usage. A map is essential; a compass very helpful. To line up the orienting lines with the map, turn the Professional orienteering compasses for demanding athletes. Who can do Orienteering? Don’t let the word adventure scare you. The lines are used to line up the direction of the map and the compass, ensuring you know the correct direction of north, south, east and west. Some of the best land navigators around are orienteers--those who participate in the cross-country running/map reading sport of orienteering. The compass is the only legal navigational aid that can be used in orienteering. Similarly, if the map scale is 1:7500, each 1. Nov 16, 2020 · Knowing what your bearing should be is key when using your compass. While there are different types of compasses, early explorer’s relied on magnetic compasses in navigation. Orienteering: Definition, History, Techniques, and Modern Applications Definition Orienteering is a competitive outdoor adventure sport that integrates racing with navigation. As figure 1 shows an orienteering compass typically consists of three main parts: a magnetic needle, a revolving compass housing, and a transparent base plate. If it's working correctly, the red end should always point to magnetic north. This photo shows the major parts of an orienteering compass. Participants use a detailed map and a compass to navigate from point to point across diverse and often unfamiliar terrain, aiming to complete the course in the shortest possible time. The red end of arrow always points north and the white end of arrow always points south. 5. Locate a landmark or orienting arrow on the map. Altimeters are specifically prohibited and GPS units are implicitly prohibited by the rules. Practice your navigation skills with one of our events! Doing orienteering in pairs is helpful for those who are new to orienteering because the person who found the bearing can help the person pacing stay on track. If you are unsure what is meant by any of these terms, then follow the links further down to find several glossaries for more information. Turn the compass housing until the BLACK arrow painted on compass housing is aligned directly underneath the red NORTH arrow. Orienteering is an exciting outdoor adventure sport that exercises mind and body. A standard orienteering course consists of a start, a series of control sites that are marked by circles, connected by lines and numbered in the order they are to be visited, and a Orienteering is an excellent way to improve your navigational skills. It can be enjoyed as a relaxing recreation, or as a challenging competitive sport. Orienteering with a compass is one of the most empowering skills a person can acquire. Orienteering is a sport that combines map reading and compass skills with physical fitness. Locate an object on the other side of a river. Why is it called The document describes the main parts of an orienteering compass, including the magnetic needle, rotating compass housing, and transparent base plate. Orienteering is often called the "thinking sport" because it involves map reading and decision-making in addition to a great workout - usually walking to a desired location. Foot orienteering is an endurance sport which involves a huge mental element. Aug 10, 2024 · Orienteering is a sport that combines navigation and racing, requiring participants to find their way across diverse terrains using only a map and compass. Once you know which direction north is, you can easily identify where east, south, and west are. Do the following: a. Aug 12, 2025 · So, What is Orienteering? The definition of Orienteering Per wikipedia – Orienteering is a group of sports that require navigational skills using a map and compass to navigate from point to point in diverse and usually unfamiliar terrain – while moving at the quickest speed. Apr 28, 2022 · Orienteering is an exciting sport where participants navigate using only a map and compass to find their way between control points of various natural and man-made features marked on a specially drawn map. Nov 22, 2021 · Definition of orienteering : a competitive or noncompetitive recreational activity in which participants use a map and compass to navigate between checkpoints along an unfamiliar course (as in the woods). Discover the thrill of orienteering. Besides these features, the compass is also useful for determining the direction of a place. Oct 21, 2020 · Learn the basics of orienteering. Feb 2, 2025 · Orienteering is the sport and skill of navigating through unfamiliar terrain using a map and compass. Orienteering Arrow - This arrow is located on floor of compass dial beneath magnetic needle. Scouting America has long included orienteering in its program. A thumb compass can be helpful when you’re not sure where to go. The magnetic needles north end is painted red and its south end white. In the field, show how to take a compass bearing and follow it. It typically consists of a magnetized needle or another element, such as a compass card or compass rose, that pivots to align itself with magnetic north. While navigation involves reading maps and using a compass to find your way, orienteering requires a combination of fitness, route choice, and race strategy. n. The document also explains how Definition of orienteering in the Definitions. Oct 10, 2019 · Background I am looking at compasses for backpacking and camping, and have come across more compass varieties than I had ever thought possible. The control point must A thumb compass is a type of compass commonly used in orienteering, a sport in which map reading and terrain association are paramount. The sport’s early days were marred by using primitive compasses that did not have needle restraints. Point out and name five terrain features on a map and in the field. American 4. b. This unique aspect makes it a challenging and thrilling experience, whether you’re a beginner or a professional athlete. The BSA Orienteering merit badge is an exciting opportunity to explore the adventurous world of navigation and outdoor exploration. Jul 10, 2025 · Using a compass effectively is vital for success in orienteering. Alternatively, you can use a compass that uses a map. It encourages outdoor exploration and physical fitness, offering a fun and educational way to connect Orienteering maps always show magnetic north, either by being drawn with magnetic north at the top of the map, or by showing magnetic north meridian lines across the map. For instance, in basic navigation, you might simply follow a map to reach a destination. Mar 26, 2021 · Orienteering activity for kids : Race marked out on a map where children will have to orient themselves with the help of a map and a compass. Streams, trails, hills, depressions, rocks, etc. In the 1920s, a new system of compass-and-protractor fusion was introduced, creating the Silva System. For beginners, orienteering is an excellent way to develop essential skills such as map reading, decision-making, and spatial awareness. Unlike a Global Positioning System (GPS), a compass does not run on batteries and will always work, letting you know which direction you are going. What is Orienteering? Orienteering is the sport and skill of navigating through unfamiliar terrain using a map and compass. Orienteering definition: a competitive sport, originating in Sweden, that tests the skills of map reading and cross-country running, in which competitors race through an unknown area to find various checkpoints by using only a compass and topographical map, the winner being the finisher with the lowest elapsed time. This article explores all you need to know about participating in an orienteering race. Orienteering maps show boulders, cliffs, ditches, and fences, in addition to elevation, vegetation, and trails. Half the activity of their Since most orienteering maps are either 1;5000, 1:7500 or 1:10000,, using a centimeter scale on a compass provides a quick and easy way to check a distance that is in a straight line. [1] The first civilian competition, in Norway Orienteering maps always show magnetic north, either by being drawn with magnetic north at the top of the map, or by showing magnetic north meridian lines across the map. It rotates as dial is turned. In 1886 the word ‘orienteering’ was, for the first time, used to mean crossing unknown territory with the aid of a map and compass. a. A map so lined up is easier to interpret and follow than a map spread out haphazardly. It can be enjoyed as a walk in the woods or as a competitive sport. Oct 11, 2010 · In reality, there are effectively only two broad categories of compass types: clear base plate models used for orienteering and lensatic compass, effective for distance sighting with mirrors. You’ll receive a map at the start. Learn to navigate any terrain with confidence and ease. This publication provides instructions on how to use a compass so you can roam in the great outdoors withou t getting lost. It requires navigating through an unknown course using a compass and a map. Etymology The term “orienteering Fine Orienteering - precision navigation in detailed terrain usually demanding careful use of map, compass andpace counting, and usually involving short course legs. Steps on taking a simple bearing: Hold the compass, flat in one hand, centered on your body. aeorienteering. What this means to you is that a protractor is one less piece of equipment you'll need to carry. It’s a magical compass, it can tell you width – The Compass Method Not really, it’s more math than magic. One of the First, lay the compass flat on a table or flat surface to learn how to read an orienteering compass. Orienteering is a type of outdoor adventure sport that requires the users to locate specific sites on a landscape using a detailed map and compass. . Point out and name 10 symbols on a topographic map. If the arrows cross, you’re in the right direction. This arrow is used when aligning a compass to a map. They are less expensive and generally easier to use. This exciting activity challenges participants to navigate through unfamiliar terrain, using a map and compass to locate predetermined control points in a specified order. An orienteer about to "punch" at a control Control on a permanent course A control point (CP; also called a control or checkpoint) is a marked waypoint used in orienteering and related sports such as rogaining and adventure racing. 5 cm = 100 meters. However, once you start going up in course difficulty and venturing off-trail, you will need something to help you figure out the direction you should head. Orienteering refers to a family of sports in which participants are required to navigate a course of unfamiliar terrain with a help of a map and a compass, testing both endurance and navigational ability. The aim is to navigate between checkpoints or controls marked on a special orienteering map. This is where your compass will become a vital aid in helping you find a control that What is a compass? Parts of a compass Compass parts diagram Parts of a compass, explained Types of compasses What is a compass, anyway? Broadly speaking, a compass is a device that indicates north. Orienteering is a captivating outdoor navigation sport that combines physical endurance, mental agility, and strategic planning. It helps people find the best route and the most direct route. Orienteering is a sport in which orienteers use an accurate, detailed map and a compass to find points in the landscape. Unleash your inner explorer with our guide on the four basic orienteering skills. orienteering compass [navigation, measurement] A compass consisting of a compass card, north arrow, and rotating magnetic needle on which the housing is mounted on a transparent rectangular base that facilitates use with a map. By earning this merit badge, you’ll learn how to find your way through unfamiliar terrain, solve puzzles, and navigate using tools like maps and compasses. The aim of orienteering is to navigate between control points (also called checkpoints) marked on an In orienteering or treasure hunting, it is often valuable to count your paces in order to estimate the distance you've traveled in a certain direction. The competitive sport began when the first competition was held for Swedish military officers on 28 May 1893 at the yearly games of the Stockholm garrison. Limit Your Risk When Orienteering Abroad Orienteering is a highly active sport. No special equipment is required to start orienteering. Orienteering is a sport that blends running or walking with cross-country navigation using a map and a compass. The use of map and compass to find a way through unfamiliar territory, especially when practiced as a competitive sport. See examples of ORIENTEERING used in a sentence. Compass A modern military compass, with included sight device for aligning A compass is a device that shows the cardinal directions used for navigation and geographic orientation. The object is to run, walk, ski, or mountain bike to a series of points shown on the map, choosing routes–both on and off trail–that will help you find all the points and get back to the finish in the shortest amount of time. May 17, 2023 · Interested in learning the basics of Orienteering? We run you through what to expect, how to learn the key skills and how to join an orienteering club. However, as soon as navigation gets more complex and you step off a trail, a compass will become a must. Show how the dial lays out the degrees around the outer edge of the dial. Aug 23, 2015 · The history of orienteering begins in the late 19th century in Sweden, the actual term “orientering” (the original Swedish name for orienteering, lit. Typical equipment includes running/hiking shoes, comfortable clothing, compass, electronic punch, and emergency whistle. What Is a Navigation is a core component of orienteering, but the sport encompasses many additional skills that set it apart from basic navigation. orienteering definition: sport of racing to find checkpoints using a map and compass. It consists of a magnetic needle that is mounted on a transparent baseplate, which has rulers and markings for directions and scale. Then, get your own map or compass, and start training! Orienteering is a great way to get outside, build confidence, and have fun! Orienteering is a Jul 19, 2025 · Orienteering is a competitive sport that involves navigating through unfamiliar terrain using a map and compass to find specific points, known as control points. To learn more about the sport, you can read this article. Orienteering is a sport in which people run from one place to another, using a compass and a map to guide them between points that are marked along the route. Explore superior quality KANPAS compasses , Global shipping. The aim of orienteering is to reach each control site in the shortest time. Orienteering as a sport in its own right started to develop in the Nordic countries at the beginning of the century. Through woods and over hills or rough plains, contestants plot courses between isolated control points that must usually be visited in sequence. "Orienteering - A sport with head and legs" is a new website with lots of information and games to learn and practise the best sport in the world. When encountering obstacles, it recommends navigating around them using landmarks or right angles to stay on course. HOUSING: The round dial that turns; has orienting lines, orienting arrow, North point, magnetic needle, and is graduated to 360° in 2° increments. In cases of homogeneous terrain with few distinct features, a bearing between 2 known points on the map may be used. The goal of orienteering is to complete a course in point-to-point order An orienteering compass, sometimes called a base plate compass, has the advantage of being a compass and a protractor combined. Explain how a compass works. The Orienteering merit badge is your invitation to explore this exciting activity. The Compass Method allows the user to determine the width of an object using some basic mathematics. ORIENTEERING can be an exciting sport for everyone in a patrol or troop. Explain that there are 360° (degrees) in a circle. iuf0fb hsf mxgay qx 7w n9s d5e gmojbbwh qe 0dfqqh