Abstract
<p>Physical activity behaviour and performance are shaped not only by physiological capacity, but also by the subjective responses that arise during and around exercise. This narrative review introduces students, researchers, clinicians, and coaches to six perceptual and affective constructs relevant to physical activity and exercise: effort perception, pain, affective responses, fatigue, dyspnea, and boredom.For each construct, we outline its definition and current knowledge of the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms. We then describe the main measurement approaches and perspectives for future research.Effort perception is addressed first because it provides a central framework for understanding the perceived cost of action and a reference point for the constructs that follow. Pain, affective responses, fatigue, dyspnea, and boredom are then considered as distinct subjective experiences that may influence physical activity behaviour and exercise performance, at least partly, by interacting with effort perception and the cost-benefit computations governing ongoing or anticipated activity.By clarifying definitions, mechanisms, and measures, this review aims to support more precise research and practice in the study of exercise-related subjective responses. It further highlights how integrating these responses may improve understanding of human performance regulation and inform individualized strategies to promote physical activity in healthy and clinical populations.</p>