It really does not matter what kind of shape you are in when you get older. Even in good shape it kicks your butt to drag one out. Three years ago I shot a big bodied deer and started to drag it out. We used to be able to drive back there so I know it was about 2 1/2 - 3 miles. The drag out of the woods was not to bad, but the railroad tracks were real bad. For the first time I set my pack and gun down and drug the deer about 100 yards and then went back to my pack and gun and repeated the process. I was not in worse shape than the year before, but that year was the turning point for age. I'm pushing 60 now and bought a cart after that experience, but it is only good to use on dirt roads or railroad tracks. I have to admit, I think twice about where I am at when I shoot a deer now, especially if the weather is warm.