For many people, going to the gym is sold as a straightforward practice: show up, work hard, and eventually achieve your dream physique. But ask regular gym-goers, and they'll tell you there's a less glamorous side to fitness that rarely makes it into motivational reels and transformation videos.

One of the biggest struggles Residents highlighted is how easy it is to fall out of routine. Missing a single workout can quickly snowball into a week away from the gym, which somehow turns into two, then three. While fitness influencers often preach consistency, many gym-goers admit that maintaining momentum can be harder than the workout itself.

Others pointed to the mental challenges that come with fitness culture, particularly body dysmorphia. Despite becoming stronger, fitter and healthier, some people say they still struggle to see progress when they look in the mirror. Even after lifting heavier weights, improving their endurance or receiving compliments from others, feelings of dissatisfaction can persist.

Then there's the endless laundry.

What starts as a simple commitment to exercise soon becomes a mountain of gym wear waiting to be washed. Between workout tops, leggings, shorts, socks and towels, many joked that staying fit comes with a full-time laundry schedule attached.

Residents also noted the frustration of slow progress. While social media often showcases dramatic before-and-after photos, real-life results usually take far longer to appear. Whether the goal is weight loss, muscle gain or increased strength, meaningful changes can take months rather than weeks, testing patience along the way.

The physical side isn't always easy either. Sore legs after squats, aching shoulders after upper-body sessions and the occasional inability to sit down comfortably after leg day are all part of the experience. For some, body aches become such a regular occurrence that they barely notice them anymore.

Few things are more devastating than arriving at the gym ready for a workout, only to realise your headphones are sitting at home. A close second is when they run out of battery halfway through a session, forcing you to either listen to the gym playlist or confront your thoughts between sets.

While the benefits of exercise are undeniable, many residents agree that gym life isn't always as polished as it appears online. Behind every fitness journey is a collection of sore muscles, missed sessions, laundry piles and mental battles that rarely make it onto Instagram.

Residents, what's the biggest downside of gym life that nobody talks about?