Originally Posted by
chasm54
I disagree. Most of the evidence suggests that intense "extreme" exercise is beneficial, even for the very elderly. It's a mistake to think that going hard will lead to injury or death. Actually, failing to go hard probably has more negative consequences, and the notion that the over fifties shouldn't exercise vigorously probably appeals more because we are lazy and prefer to be comfortable than because it has any intrinsic merit.
Of course, drving oneself to complete exhaustion by riding at threshold for hours at a time may not be the smartest idea. But going as hard as possible for short periods seems to be extremely beneficial.
Joe Fries agrees with you. See his new book Fast After 50. Everyone will have their own take on the debate. I've opted for intensity and a weekly long ride but sacrifice total volume for good rest. Looks like I have to have two very easy or off the bike days before a ride of intensity or long duration. Friel who has turned 70 is following this schedule based on a 9 day period instead of 7. But as they say "YMMV". Whatever you do needs to be fun.