Their 'exertions' [='efforts'] were rewarded when they won the championship.
He was panting from the 'exertion' of climbing the stairs.
an easy sport that requires little physical 'exertion'
(..) Go see Maggie, lads. Let's go ! Coffee, sir ? l had hoped you would come to me last night. l was tired. Your exertions below decks were no doubt exhausting. l see you had that undertaker of a manservant follow me. How typical. You will never behave like that again, Rose. Do you understand ? (..)1997 Titanic