What is Clogging anyway?

Clogging is a fun, energetic American folk dance that has its roots in the Appalachian Mountains. With deep historical and cultural significance, clogging was born from the fusion of different dance traditions brought by European immigrants, enslaved Africans, and Native American communities. These diverse cultural influences came together in the Appalachian region, and over time, a unique and lively style of dance developed—what we now know as clogging.

At its core, clogging is a percussive dance. That means the dancers themselves become part of the music, using their feet to create rhythmic sounds that match the beat. Traditionally, clogging was performed to bluegrass music, but one of the great things about the style is its versatility. These days, you can clog to just about any type of music with a strong beat—country, pop, rock, and more!

Clogging is easy to learn and fun for all ages. There are just eight basic steps, which can be rearranged and combined in countless ways. This makes clogging adaptable: you can keep it simple and laid back, or you can build in more complex combinations to challenge yourself. Whether you're dancing solo or with a group, the most important part is to have fun and enjoy the rhythm and movement together.

One of the most fun and unique parts of clogging is the footwear!

Clogging shoes are typically leather shoes or boots with special taps attached to the bottoms. These taps are often “jingle taps”—two layers of metal that create a clear, bright sound when the dancer moves. The shoes turn every step into part of the music, adding to the rhythmic and percussive quality of the dance. For beginners, basic shoes the attached stompers are the easiest way to go, and we’re happy to help guide families on how to get started.

Beyond being a great time, clogging also offers many benefits. It provides an excellent cardiovascular workout, helping to improve stamina, coordination, and balance. The rhythmic patterns and footwork also help strengthen muscles and sharpen mental focus. Plus, dancing in a group fosters social connections and boosts mood—there’s something incredibly uplifting about moving in sync with others and creating music with your feet!

We are so excited to announce that Jessica Pickerel will be joining BTC as our new clogging instructor this fall! Jessica brings energy and enthusiasm as well as expertise to every class, and we can’t wait to welcome students of all experience levels to give clogging a try. Come kick up your heels, make some noise, and be part of something truly joyful—our new Clogging class at BTC!

Enroll for Clogging Class!