Hi Liam-
This has been a very interesting thread.
I am in my early fifties and seriously started flying little planes and riding motorbikes when I was 17.
I have a slight limp... this is as a result of my interest in motorbikes... by the way I am an approved Driving Standards Agency instructor on these infernal things.
So far, except for one or two "I really don't want to do that again" moments I have enjoyed a clean sheet with regards to little planes (and I have flown a lot of them).
My advice must be to listen to the experienced guys around you (excepting the bar room know-alls) and don't push the outside of the envelope too much and too regularly unless of course you like dancing with fate.
R