Go Easy

You wouldn't learn to drive by entering a Grand Prix race, would you? So don't plunge into walking by taking on a 20-mile night-yomp across Dartmoor with nothing but a piece of Kendal Mint Cake for company. Your body needs time to adjust to the new demands you'll be placing upon it.

If you haven't done any serious hiking in a long time, ease yourself in by building some walking into your daily routine. Stroll to the shops, stride out for a few stops instead of taking the bus. Then, once you've got a few miles under your belt, pick out an easy-looking walk of around three miles and go for it. If you're a bit fitter, you can be more ambitious but the cardinal rule is: don't overdo it. There'll be plenty of opportunities for epic hikes once the walking bug has bitten.

Kitted-Out

There's no need for beginner-walkers to buy scary leather boots. If you're on a budget, or you just want to dip your toe into the walking scene, a stout pair of shoes or trainers should do the trick at first.

If you're aiming to get a bit more serious, a decent outdoor retailer should be able to steer you towards a pair of "multi-activity" shoes. Constructed from modern materials, these light, responsive shoes are easily tough enough for the walks you'll be tackling at first. They ought to be comfy straight out of the box. Look for a roomy toebox and a heel that feels snug without gripping.

It's worth buying some dedicated walking socks to go with your snazzy new shoes. They're designed to wick away (or absorb) sweat from your hard-working feet and you'll be glad of them once you get going. Aim for layers of clothing that you can adjust to suit the conditions. And take a waterproof jacket. We are talking about Britain, after all.