One thing that is unique about the deadlift: it’s a big Central Nervous System shock. That’s the main reason the recovery time is so protracted compared to other exercises. It’s basically tricking your body into thinking, Oh, shit, my life is in danger.

It should be mentioned that this isn’t bad for you. It’s actually good! Controlled stress that is not prolonged of this type improves your mind and body — totally different from the ceaseless, repetitive stress of, say, a terrible job.

But deadlifts are like fighting a bear. This is also why I like them.