Both myself and my husband have had to miss classes because there are too many. The gym has addressed this type of thing by adding more classes right after the existing classes, but that is where the doubling up comes into play -those classes are also swelled with the same regulars who just did a class. It is discouraging sometimes. I don't begrudge someone their workout - if space was no issue, it would not be my business.

I guess the other thing that fascinates me (as you mention, it can be useful to look around and observe others to inform my own workout) is how much time others can spend in heavy duty cardio but not move closer to their goals taking this singular route. It has definitely helped to examine how I structure my training and push me to follow a balanced approach.

A positive note is that at least the weather is getting nicer outside, I will be spending more time on the a non-stationery bike!