It’s gotten a little bit better, but 30 years ago, it was really bad. You are right, some people actually considered it indicative of homosexual leanings!
I’m in MT now and if you want to properly enjoy what the state has to offer such as back country hunting, fly fishing, hiking and skiing you can’t be obese. There’s also a mentality of “physical readiness” among the males here, at least in my age group.