For fixed route courses (e.g. LAMM D) you only need to plan the first leg at the start, you can plan the other legs on the move. Some people mark all controls on the map before leaving the start, others only mark one or two and mark the rest on the way to the first control to save time.
For score courses (e.g. Dark and White) you need to mark all controls at the start and work out a rough strategy before starting. You can refine the strategy as you go round. Ideally, your later controls will allow you the option of cutting short and heading straight for the finish if running out of time.
Depends how remote the big ones are, and whether you can get more points by mopping up a large number of smaller, closer controls. Down to the course planning really. It always feels good to get one or two of the big point controls! I don't think it matters whether you are a beginner or not. The only thing is, if you go for the big ones you have to be sure you can get back in time i.e. nav and fitness are good enough.
A tip for nav is get hold of the book "Mountain Navigation for Runners" by Martin Bagness. A new edition is available as an e-book from
Lakes Runner.
Originally Posted by Stevie
For fixed route courses (e.g. LAMM D) you only need to plan the first leg at the start, you can plan the other legs on the move. Some people mark all controls on the map before leaving the start, others only mark one or two and mark the rest on the way to the first control to save time.
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