They seem to cater towards “average” people, meaning not super fit beautiful people. It’s their way of making “average” people more comfortable because apparently fit, healthy, attractive people are intimidating. I went from a real gym to 24hr fitness and was laughed at by a worker when I asked where the chalk was. He said “this is a fitness club”. At my old gym most people were very serious about fitness, and never once did I see anyone mock or look down on a non fit person. Actually the opposite, everyone super friendly and willing to help spot or give advice when asked. A few years later I moved out to a wealthier area of town and joined Lifetime fitness. There they had mostly machines and a small free weight area, but the facility is massive. Lot’s of wannabe’s and nobody overly muscular. At certain times, it was like social hour where people just stand around and talk... it was a little annoying. Especially Saturday mornings when all the girls come out with full makeup and earings and lululemon clothes. Actually, some of them loved the stair steppers in the front row, I didn’t mind that...actually made walking on the tradmills behind them enjoyable. At any gym, I just pull my hat down and work out and mind my own business. I never really had a problem with anyone. Anyway, If you want to join PF, then join PF and don’t worry about anything or anyone else. All gyms are different and there’s no shame in working out there.