There is a lot of truth in your post, V.K. Thanks for reminding me of my own "humble" beginnings.
I did start out very carefully--maybe 20 minutes a day. I didn't want to injure myself. I still, to this day, stop if I feel any sharp pain.
I upped it to 30 minutes a day, then 40 a day, and so forth.
I probably didn't hit an hour a day until, (I forget), probably week 6 or so. So I was well into my second month.
So I definitely built up slowly, and that is your point, and it is a very good one.
There is also a genetic factor here. I have VERY resilient skin. The dermatologist told me recently that I have the skin of a man much younger than I am.
So you have to work with whatever mother nature has given you.
BOTTOM LINE: DON"T OVERDO IT!!! I think mother nature visited DLD's house after she left mine.
Your point is well taken--that the same results might have been achieved with shorter and less intense workouts.
I'll never know the answer to that question. I was too busy enjoying the workouts.