: Not blaming the kayaking....just the mindset of acting like you are 25 when u
: are an old man.....
So you believe that 50 is old? If my family history is any indication, that's just about mid-life (expectancy) for me. Scary thought, eh guys? 
FWIW, when my resting heart rate is 48-50, I know I'm in good shape. My max HR is still ~190, which isn't bad for a 48-year-old.
I realize that your friend's problem is something else entirely and I'm sorry to hear of his misfortune. However, if you want to avoid the same fate, the worst thing you can do is to give up physical activity. While you state otherwise, it sure sounds like you're blaming kayaking for his health problems, in both of your posts. Have you asked him what he blames it on? I'll bet he won't say kayaking.
Have you changed your mind about giving up kayaking? If not, have you come up with another physical activity that's less gear-intensive to take it's place? If not, you should. Otherwise, you're likely to be joining your friend in a few years. None of us want to see that.
