Enjoy outdoor adventuring? Why the sport of orienteering could be for you

Are you someone who enjoys hiking along with a bit of brainwork and strategising? Then the sport of orienteering could be for you.

The South African Orienteering Federation (SAOF) describes the activity as one combining physical and mental elements - the basic idea is to proceed from course start to finish by visiting several control points in a numerical order with the help of a map and compass.

To get more insight, Gugs Mhlungu chats to Carl Holmes, who is a South African elite orienteer and coach.

He describes orienteering as a combination of an outdoor adventure and a sport.

Holmes highlights the fact that it is accessible for all ages and fitness types, whether you like to run or walk - if you can move, you can do it, he says.

They have young childrenof five or six who do the easier courses, up to participants who're 80 years old.

In South Africa, generally, orienteering is done in areas where there are existing hiking trails, whether in an urban setting or the bush.

"You could have an elite runner come and do it, and they'll be more competitive and race, focusing on the time. Then you could have an everyday person come and just walk along the course, so to them it's more of a hike."

Currently there are two clubs in Gauteng, along with one in Polokwane and one in Cape Town.

The easiest way to start is to come to a club event, where an experienced member will explain how it works.

Visit the SAOF website for more information on orienteering and upcoming events.

To listen to Carl Holmes in conversation with Gugs Mhlungu on 702's Weekend Breakfast, click on the audio link below: