Why do people visit the Gym ??

I get your point as to what you're trying to say but i would not say its a status symbol. I think there are many reasons to go to gym and work out. One of them is people get lazy if they are to do exercise at home, this is the case with me. Another one is that one can never be as good a trainer as a qualified gym instructor and ofcourse the advice lines are really helpful in shaping one's body as one might not be aware whether the specific exercise is being done properly. Another reason for me is that its a good time out from studies and daily life as well.

I tried going to Curves for a while and while I loved it, and enjoyed being with others, I hated their hours. They didn't have late night hours and that's about the only time I have to work out. So, I bought a gazelle and set it up in the corner of my living room. I take it out at night and watch my favorite tv shows while exercising on the gazelle! There have been many times, while watching a really good show, that I'll do a full hour on the gazelle, burn around 600 calories, and hardly even realize it! So I much prefer working out at home than at a gym.

I go to the gym for the aerobics classes. It's just different than doing it in front of the TV. I know what you mean, though. I hear people say they aren't trying to lose weight because they don't have money for a gym membership. Walking around the neighborhood every evening is free!!!