However, it is gradually losing its hardcore feel.
As are most gyms. People now, are training for health, and think that if they get too big (as if it's the easiest thing in the world- throw on 455 on the squat bar for 15 after 2-3 workouts) they will be dead of a heart attack in days.
The days of training "hardcore" and seeing guys like back in the 80's, are long over.
Gyms of today cater to housewives and soccer moms. Where the money is at. Those people cower and are intimidated by hardcore guys lifting a few feet away.
The current Gold's must be must larger (3 separate rooms and an outdoor area) than the first two
The first two gyms were pretty much just two hole in the wall places in comparison to the current Golds. I know the original was one building, and one room in the new Golds is probably larger than the whole building of the original.