Effort and the perception of effort (PE) have been extensively studied across disciplines, resulting in multiple definitions. These inconsistencies block scientific progress by impeding effective communication between and within fields. Here, we present an integrated perspective of effort and PE that is applicable to both physical and cognitive activities. We define effort as the energy utilized to perform an action. This definition can be applied to biological entities performing various voluntary or involuntary activities, irrespective of whether the effort contributes to goal achievement. Then, we define PE as the instantaneous experience of utilizing energy to perform an action. This definition builds on that of effort without conflating it with other subjective experiences. We explore the nature of effort and PE as constructs and variables and highlight key considerations in their measurement. Our integrated perspective aims to facilitate a deeper understanding of these constructs, refine research methodologies, and promote interdisciplinary collaborations.

努力和努力感知（PE）已被跨学科广泛研究，产生了多种定义。这些不一致阻碍了领域之间和领域内的有效沟通，从而阻碍了科学进步。在这里，我们提出了适用于身体和认知活动的努力和体育的综合视角。我们将努力定义为用于执行某项操作的能量。该定义可应用于执行各种自愿或非自愿活动的生物实体，无论该努力是否有助于实现目标。然后，我们将PE定义为利用能量执行动作的瞬时体验。这个定义建立在努力的基础上，但没有将其与其他主观体验混为一谈。我们探讨了努力和 PE 作为结构和变量的本质，并强调了衡量它们的关键考虑因素。我们的综合视角旨在促进对这些结构的更深入理解，完善研究方法，并促进跨学科合作。