orienteringar

Orienteeringar is a Swedish term that refers to events, competitions, and activities within the sport of orienteering. The discipline combines navigation and running, where participants use a map and a compass to find a sequence of control points across varied terrain. The emphasis is on accurate map reading, efficient route choice, and decision making under time pressure, rather than sheer speed alone.

The sport originated in the early 20th century in Sweden and spread worldwide. It is governed internationally by the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) and locally by national federations such as Svenska Orienteringsförbundet in Sweden. Major organized events include regional and national races, as well as world championships and masters championships. Orienteeringar can be organized as open public events or formal, club-run competitions, ranging from casual training sessions to high-level championships.

There are several formats within orienteeringar. Foot orienteering is the traditional form and includes sprint (urban or park environments), middle distance, long distance, and relay races. Other variations include night orienteering, where courses are illuminated by headlamps, and trail orienteering, which focuses on precise map reading and accessibility for participants with different mobility levels. Score orienteering is a flexible format where competitors aim to visit as many controls as possible within a time limit, potentially visiting controls in any order.

Common equipment includes a topographic map produced for orienteering, a compass, running gear, and a control punch or electronic timing system to record visits. Orienteeringar are popular among all ages and skill levels, with organized clubs offering activities, training, and competition opportunities worldwide.