Looks to me like they're trying to put you on a bike like the one you have! Could be some prejudices at play here. I find, as a fat woman (not implying that you are!), that bike shop employees tend to think I'm not fit or don't know what I need or am ignorant about bikes in general. Or, maybe you've said something that lead them to believe that's what you wanted--sending a mixed message or something. Anytime someone who doesn't know me assumes to know what I will or won't like, it's a red flag for me.

If I were you I'd get a bike very different from the one you have. I wouldn't get a fitness bike. This way you are prepared for further evolution of your fitness.

Try another shop, and insist on riding road bikes.

Karen