Why is this surprising? Unless airlines make standard coach seats as unbearable as possible then what incentive do you have to upgrade to the somewhat more expensive, slightly less tortuous “premium” seats?
I flew on a 777 with AA 4 times coming back and forth from Japan in 2013, and they were uncomfortable, I am still amazed how I managed to knock out on the flight back to Texas one time.
If you're flying domestically and you know you'll have 2 checked bags, sometimes it's worth it to check business class prices. Checked bags are included in the cost of the ticket (sometimes they allow higher weights). Then you add a meal vs paying for a $12 samich in a box. Sometimes the cost for the 2-1/2" of seat width, plus your own arm rest and a seat that reclines a little more, plus extra leg room are negligible.