[Sandy and Ed]

Originally Posted by retiredguy123

If I were the instructor, saving spots would never happen.

Agree. The instructor needs to step in and forbid, yes forbid, saving floor space for cronies. Meet outside and come in together.

[PersonOfInterest]

Originally Posted by margaretmattson

In this post, we are talking about the overcrowded classes. If you want more classes or clubs, you have to start them. Any one can start a class or club, just takes some intuitive.

As for the golf courses, pickleball courts etc. You should have done the math! No way over 30 golf courses is going to mean 140,000 people plus their occasional guests can golf whenever they want. Same with the 100 or so pickleball courts, you have to learn to share. Or, do as they do in some retirement communities. Guests are not permitted to use any of the amenities.

The classes that are being talked about are 'Instructor' led classes so someone can't just 'start' another class. There is also a shortage of Villages 'rooms' where these classes could be held. Many of these classes are NOT at Villages recreation centers, but at the commercial Fitness centers (Genesis) .

I have lived in multiple cities with comparable populations that had less than 8 golf courses in the area and had much less trouble getting a tee time. Previously I've lived in retirement communities with about 5,000 people and 2 pickleball courts that were not as crowded as here. I find that regardless of the large number of facilities, they are not able to accommodate the number of people wanting to use these facilities during 'prime time'.

[Sandy and Ed]

In reading these responses I see we have more than a few folks that feel they are so “entitled” to reserve first come first served spots by planting an “Anchor” sorority sister or fraternal brother in an open seating situation. I see this at the squares where some will lay articles of clothing over seats so as to imply that someone is sitting there, etc. These are the folks who are always the first to throw out the “entitled class” label referring to others in conversation. “ He or she doesn’t travel in OUR circle”..so they forget about being courteous. So hypocritical.

[jimbomaybe]

Originally Posted by margaretmattson

I understand your frustration, been there many times myself when I want to attend a popular class or club.
But, I understand these classes and clubs are not public like a gym or the squares. They exist because of individuals who took the time, energy, and constant attendance needed to start them. I would not classify any of these people "entitled." They are just continuing and participating in something they created. What gives you (or anyone) the right to push them out?

Personally, I find most of them quite accommodating. They tell you their guidelines, offer you a spot if one is available, or go out of their way to tell you of another class with more openings. What more can they offer? Their spots to newcomers who did nothing to create and continue the class? I still am a believer that Kindness and entitlement works both ways.

Since "your spot" is a concern, you being one of those making the class possible arrange the class so you have to preregister for the class and when you do get a perasigned place, of course to make that function if you were to not attend you of course would go to the bottom of the list next time around, much simpler , you show up first you get first pick

[SusanStCatherine]

What is your objection to someone who arrived before you saving a spot? That seems to be the norm. Get there earlier than them. What's really annoying is someone coming in just before class starts and getting way too close to me when I got there 15-60 minutes prior. Most classes don't have reserved spots for regulars. I attended line dancing and the first class I was stuck in the back corner. Next class I came an hour ahead of time. A man came up to me and said it was his spot. My friends and I kindly told him it doesn't work that way. He looked very disappointed. Is either party acting entitled?

[rsmurano]

If someone left keys/towels on chairs for over 10 mins, I would take them and put them in the corner. I’m ok with saving seats if you are getting a drink or changing into clothes for the workout, 10 mins should cover that. After that, those chairs/seats are open, I don’t care if you are on a cruise, at the gym, or at a square.

[deborahcme]

Posting as a fitness instructor from "up nawth." Your FI is not the police. We can't step in and settle everyone's hash, much as we might like to! Most people who have their "spot" do so out of habit. Most people who save spots for others just want to hang out with their best buds. It's not intentional "entitlement," just peeps seeking their comfort zone. And perhaps having a wee dose of FMO! When I see a full class, I'll just say "Hey we are full up today. Isn't that great? I know you all will make room and welcome any newcomers. They are probably nervous. So, give them a hand! Thank you so much for helping them find a spot to work out!" This, done with eye contact and positive smiles works beautifully. And if you are a newcomer to a class, go ahead and introduce yourself to a few peeps. "Confess" to being a newbie and not sure what to do. Any defensive walls will melt away. Yeah, yeah, there will still be a few who....ya know. But for the most part, I've found people want to be welcoming, especially here in TV.

[maistocars]

Well said, Anen!!

[pauld315]

Wait until all the short term AirBnB renters get here during the season. You will have ot get there 2 - 3 hours in advance to get in.

[Mac81]

The instructor needs to step in here. I understand once in a while for one person but that's too much and not fair.

[waterflower]

All marketing is a mind game. Everything looks beautiful, but; empty heart and soul.

[tophcfa]

Originally Posted by Chee-Chee

I have noticed recently in some of the aerobic and yoga classes that people come in early and save spots for friends. Some people have gone as far as coming early putting down name tags and then leaving later they come back and expect their spot to be saved.

Dam, I guess yoga isn’t exactly the zen, peace, and tranquility activity that it’s advertised to be?

[Kim McGraw]

Simply turn the keys into “lost and found”. Lol.

[kendi]

Originally Posted by BobnBev

Sounds like you've been meeting the true "ENTITLED" villager. They seem to be everywhere.

That’s society in general. Not exclusive to TV

[wmcgowan]

get their earlier that the other person