but if I were single at any age, I would never approach a woman at a gym.

I mean, more power to you. I’m mostly just saying “Women over 55 who are fit exist, you can find them at gyms all over the country.” I’m not suggesting you need to hit on any of them.

That said, I can say from personal experience that people flirting with each other at the gym is incredibly common. I’ve flirted. I’ve been flirted. I even dated a Pilates instructor that I met there.

Feels only a small step better than approaching them at work.

Lot of flirting happens in offices, too.

“Captive audience” type shit

You meet people where you both are. But there’s a tactful way to approach people and a crass way. Don’t go running up to grab someone by the pussy. But smiles and small talk don’t hold anyone hostage.