Hormones play a crucial role in influencing fat distribution in the body. Key hormones involved include insulin, cortisol, and sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Insulin affects fat storage by promoting the uptake of glucose and fat into cells, while cortisol, a stress hormone, can lead to increased abdominal fat when elevated chronically. Meanwhile, sex hormones significantly influence where fat is stored; estrogen tends to promote fat storage in hips and thighs, while testosterone encourages fat free mass and muscle development. Understanding how hormones interact with body composition can inform better strategies for weight management and fitness planning.