Newcomers’ guide to orienteering | Illawarra Kareelah Orienteers

What is orienteering ?

Orienteering is an exciting and challenging outdoor sport that exercises the mind and body. You visit locations called “control points” while navigating on a “course” with the help of a special map. You can run or walk. There are mountain bike courses and there is even ski orienteering. There are courses for all ages and different levels of fitness. The following videos provide a taste of what the sport is about – an adventure sport for everyone that is more than just running.

This short beginners guide, filmed at the world games in 2022 championships explains the key aspects of the sport.

Orienteering in NSW

Check out the New to Orienteering webpage on the Orienteering NSW website.

Getting started.

Visit https://orienteering.asn.au/go-orienteering/getting-started/ to learn about:

the different types and levels of orienteering;
basics including the map, the symbols, control points and descriptions; and
essential skills required.

Check out the instructional videos before you set out on your first event.

The Beginner section on the British Better Orienteering website provides an excellent introduction to those starting out. It includes a Newcomers Guide video and links to a series of other videos on techniques that can be used by newcomers wanting to “get up to speed”. Each video focuses on a specific orienteering skill.