Example: I started my modern road bike experience with a 52/42/30 with 11 - 27 8 speed cassette. Then I did some math and realized a 50/34 with 11-30 gave me nearly the same wide range, particularly the lowest gear. The rear derailer was Sora and it handled the large range cassette just fine. Within a few months of riding I realized I didn't use that lowest combination except in extreme circumstances, so the large cassette wasn't practical. I currently ride 50/34, 11-28 and rarely use the lowest gear.

With regular riding it doesn't take long for an out of shape body to snap back into some form where you won't feel like keeling over at the first hint of a hill. At that point the lowest combination won't be used or needed.