TJ, most of the guys I hang out with are actually envious and/or very supportive, but they aren't the most masculine fellas either..lol Most of my friends are sci-fi comic book geeks such as myself. The only callouses I ever get on my hands are from playing guitar...lol!
I actually think it takes a much stronger man to be able to make a lifestyle change that you and I have chosen...So next time challenge them to drink liquids for 5 days, survive being stabbed 5 -6 times, and then control your eating the way we have to. Now THAT is a MANLY MAN! *high five*