Not only gyms, I can also see similarities to country clubs and golf clubs. So it wouldn't surprise me if the business model turns out similar to these members

Not only gyms, I can also see similarities to country clubs and golf clubs. So it wouldn't surprise me if the business model turns out similar to these membership structures. I'm not sure the take is necessarily cynical, or just price discretion for different levels of needs. Marketing would be absolutely crucial, as you and many people have rightly pointed out.