Hiking is one of the simplest forms of exercise, which is something I realized in my 40s. I needed a way to work off calories and get fit. Tennis, pickleball and golf demand hand-eye coordination that I have always lacked. Putting one foot in front of another, however, that I could do.

At first I felt intimidated. Where were trails that I’d be fit enough to hike? What boots were best? Did I need hiking poles? And what exactly was hiking versus walking?

A few answers.

Hiking usually refers to an energetic form of walking that takes you into nature, generally along paths that aren’t paved. However, in my view, a brisk walk of more than a couple of miles in a park or along the beach also qualifies and is a great way to start.

The key is to begin with short hikes along relatively even, flat surfaces in moderate weather. Remember, you don’t have to get to the endpoint of advertised hiking trails. Time yourself and turn around after 20 minutes, then 30, then 40 as you build up stamina.

Here are my top recommendations:

Hydrate. Always take plenty of water with you, at least 1 liter, even when the weather is cool. Either carry water bottles or insert a filled hydration bladder into your backpack. The latter has a tube and mouthpiece, which offers easy access to sips of water without the need to stop and untwist caps.

Pay attention to footwear. Wear comfortable hiking boots or shoes with a grippy tread, especially once you graduate to hiking on uneven surfaces. Test them out walking in town before embarking on a hike. If you feel a hot spot emerging, treat it before it becomes a blister.

Hiking poles are great. I used to think they were only for wimps until I realized what a wonderful advantage they gave me on rocky trails, steadying me and providing momentum going uphill. These days, it’s easy to find ones that collapse down so you can transport them in your backpack to use as needed.

Don’t go alone. Hike with at least one other person, and keep your cellphone charged. Besides being a safer option, half the fun of hiking is chatting with others and sharing your joy at the natural surroundings. Apps can help with navigation, but as a hiking beginner, it’s best to start with well-marked trails.

Snacks are awesome. Trail mix is called that for a reason. Nuts and dried fruit or granola bars are the best pick-me-ups. I also carry electrolyte powder or gummies, which help if I find myself fatigued, especially in the heat.

Carry basic first aid. Make sure you have sunscreen, bug spray and Band-Aids.

As far as hiking etiquette goes, here are important things to remember:

Leave no trace. Pack in, pack out.

Stay on the trails. You don’t want to get lost or damage delicate habitat.

Hiking is wonderful, believe me. It’s great for balance and fitness, can be scheduled at any time, offers an opportunity to meet like-minded people and requires no complicated skills or equipment. Learning about wildflowers and wildlife is a bonus.

Hope to see you out there on the many trails that we have access to thanks to Irvine Company’s designation of more than 57,500 acres of open space.

Visit letsgooutside.org to find out about guided hikes or ocparks.com to find maps of Orange County trails that you can navigate on your own.