Besides moving the body, muscles are also used to provide heat and stabilize the body. Certain muscles are constantly being stimulated to help maintain posture and stability, even when we are unaware of their action. When body temperature is low, muscles can contract to produce body heat. This is why we shiver when we are cold.

Though some calcium is stored in muscle cell, calcium storage and regulation is primarily accomplished by the skeletal system. Hormones are released to directly influence calcium release or uptake in bone.