I think it is rediculous to even be carrying a cell phone in the gym, and anyone that is serious about their work-out leaves the cell phone in the car or gym locker. Hell a work-out is typically only one hour, what could be so important that is could not wait one hour?
A far as people using cell phones in public, that is now the norm. I use my cell phone in public and see nothing wrong with it. In fact to not have a cell phone is almost like not having a home phone or television in this day and age.