Training vs. Overdoing

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Why are you worrying about doing 'centuries' when you have so much pain after riding? It seems like you need to relax and do some stress less 20-25 mile rides and see at what length and speed you can go where you do not hurt afterward. Then you can slowly build up. I am also more than twice as old as you. When I ride in the summer, I can go farther and more frequently than now - when the rain interferes with riding. I don't get really sore, but my muscles feel fatigued. Than I take a couple of days off. Or swim or water aerobics - it's great for stretching. I know I will be able to do more in the Spring. Just take it easy!

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Resting is integral part of training!! Your body need to repair the micro-tear and strengthen your muscle. If you don't allow for healing time, YOU WILL GET HURT BIG TIME!!

+1 with what everyone else says.

I know its not easy when you are so excited about the century. It's a long ways away and plenty of time to train moderately to reach your goal.

Winter time is used for recovery and to build up your base. THIS IS NOT A TIME TO BE BUILDING SPEED OR POWER. THIS IS THE TIME TO BUILD YOUR BASE!! The base will give you the necessary body for building speed, and power for the summer.

Train right, Train smart.

Look at the big picture and work on your base for now.

Wish you lots of fun at your century.