Why does everyone recommend joining hobbies and make friends when I’m trying to find a date?

I have male and female friends that I see regularly. So I’m not looking (if it happens cool)for anymore. What I want is to date and find a romantic/sexual partner.

Whenever I ask for specific dating advice, people just tell me to join hobbies/meetups and make friends. I don’t understand why, when this has never worked for dating. I’ve tried to take their advice and join things like bowling leagues or exercise classes. I’m not shy and have met some cool people but here in suburbia, everyone in my age range is already married or in relationships. It’s super weird and awkward trying to be the third wheel.

Even if there was a single woman there, that doesn’t mean she’ll be interested in me or want me flirting with her. As a guy, if I’m not careful some people could think that I’m there to “hit on women” and label me a creep. At the same time if I don’t go out or say anything then nothing romantic is going to happen.

The apps never worked for me, how are you supposed to go out and get dates in real life these days?