In the world of land navigation, you will hear about pace counts. If you do a lot of dead reckoning, you will be constantly working on counts. Even if you focus on terrain association, it is an extremely useful tool, when properly applied.
A pace is the length of your step or stride. By finding your average, you will have the ability to measure distance more accurately. This is helpful with navigation when you need to move precise distances, as it is more reliable to have a system of measuring than to simply guess how far you have gone.
While a pace can be measured with each step, it is easier if you only count every other step. Meaning I only count every time my left foot strikes the ground. This leads to half the counting and less confusion, which is important when you get exhausted.
For ease of math, I get my baseline pace count from 100 meters. This is large enough of a distance to be an accurate and repeatable average. It is also easy to divide or multiply from this number for shorter or longer distances.
To get your count you need to mark out 100 meters (or 328 feet). Begin with using flat and clear ground. Now walk this distance with normal clothes, no equipment, and during the daytime. I would count at least twice to make certain they are the same or within a step or two.
After years of demonstrating this in class and getting an average, most adults are between 62 and 70 no matter their height. If you are not remotely close to this number, you did something wrong or I cannot explain this concept very clearly.
After you have your baseline number, I also suggest getting your pace count while carrying your equipment and in the terrain you will walk over. Finally, do all of this again to get your average count at night, under your conditions. Most people find they take shorter strides with a pack over less than perfect conditions. For example, I average 67 on flat ground with no weight and 75 paces at night uphill, with a 25-pound pack and rifle. This added number compensates for running into at least one bush and has keep me “found” for 15 or 20 years now.
If you plan on doing land navigation I’d practice some pace counts. They like everything else navigation related is as much art as science. Practice is required.
Get out there and train.
-Joseph
Outpost 95 