The Northern Jewels Cloggers are dancing up a storm at a unique five-week camp that started last week.
The Tuesday evening sessions introduce people who are interested in clogging to try out the percussive folk dance.
The Northern Jewels Cloggers are a club that has been located in Oro-Medonte for the last 10 years; it boasts about 50 students.
“We are a vibrant social group, dancing twice a week, with students ranging in ages 12 to 83 years old. Clogging is a very gentle exercise and therefore can be enjoyed at all ages and stages of life,” explained instructor Julie MacLeod.
“We attend annual workshops in Canada and the U.S. (and) we also enjoy performances at local festivals, markets, and other community events.”
MacLeod says for some, clogging is a way to socialize and meet new people. For others, it’s a way to enjoy a bonding night out together. However, all cloggers get the same physical and mental health benefits from participating, she explained.
“The beauty is, although we are exercising, it doesn't feel like a grind. Instead it's a pleasure to be so active and listen to some great music,” she said.
“The benefits are tremendous for your concentration, memory, coordination and, of course, it's a fantastic way to build muscle and improve your lung and heart capacity.”
MacLeod offers clogging lessons from September to May each year, along with several clogging camps.
“The camps give people an opportunity to learn some basic steps to fun music with a short time commitment. I provide loaner shoes for this event and have several for sale at the end of the camp,” she explained.
"Once the camp is completed, students will then have an opportunity to join in our regular weekly lessons offered at the beginner level. Clogging with the Northern Jewels is one of the most affordable exercise or dance classes you'll find," she said.
Suzanne Williams joined The Northern Jewels Cloggers for a camp five years ago, and now she is an experienced dancer.
“It is so fun, it’s a great group of people, there is great music playing, and it’s great exercise as well,” Williams said.
“It’s actually great for your brain as well. I find that having to concentrate on the choreography is really good for brain function.”
Williams encourages those with interest to get involved, no matter what age or skill level they might be starting at.
“If you have the chance to go see clogging go and see it, and I know you’ll want to try it,” she said.
“I got involved by joining one of Julie’s camps - that’s where I learned the basic steps. I had no idea what it even was when I got started.”
Williams says attending one of MacLeod’s camps is a good starting point.
“It’s an easy way to get started. Often, some of the more experienced cloggers attend the camps to help you along which is really helpful,” she said.
“Julie is a really caring person, she is willing to stay after class to help if you are having any trouble. She’s a really good teacher and a fantastic clogger.”
For more information about the Northern Jewels Cloggers and upcoming camps and lessons, click here.
