Fanatic,
Both the 7/08 and the 25-06 recoil less than the .30-06. But, perceived recoil is largely dependent upon the rifle's weight and stock shape. Both have recoil that is doable for just about anyone. When my g/f was looking to upgrade, Ihad her try a friend's 7/08, and she thought that the recoil was no less than my old Ruger .270. We got her a Rem 700 BDL.270, which is a tad heavier than my Ruger, and she absolutely loves it.