> Note the paradox here: one of the principles of training is to stimulate the body, to “wear it out” at a given moment in time in order to trigger the physiological processes that will lead to improved capabilities, the fight against fatigue… and, ultimately, increased resistance to physical stress.

A somewhat recent paper:

Systematic review and meta-analysis of antioxidants with or without exercise training improving muscle condition in older adults

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12491480/

Seems to imply that as we get older, antioxidants might help the body recover from exercise. More specifically, antioxidants may help resolve exercise induced inflammation in adults aged over 55 years.

So it seems that, yes, as you get older, its easier for the body to wear down, but this can be mitigated somewhat.