Interesting article. I have certainly noticed that pretty much everyone has something plugged in their ears at the gyms nowadays. It used to be you might meet people at the gym back in the 90’s or so but not so much anymore unless you see someone in one of the classes.
While it’s true 70% or more of the patrons are plugged in and oblivious to the world if you’re going to the gym to socialize instead of actually work out you’re going to the wrong place.
I didn’t lose 110 pounds in 9 months at one point socializing at the gym.
Even in my little Oregon coastal city, our community center is almost the nerve center of town, with folks of all ages,varying stages of physical conditionining, shapes, and sizes go to get healthy. The membership fees are reasonable, with discounts for residents who live within the city limits, as well as senior discounts for our large number of local retirees. There are yoga classes, line dancing classes, aqua aerobics, etc.
I joined a year ago during our rainy, dreary Oregon winter when talking four-mile beach walks just wasn't practical. It's been a lifesaver for me.