Northern winters have a way of keeping us dormant by limiting our opportunity for fun physical activity. During these cold months, students are especially susceptible to a decrease in physical and mental health.

The University of Wisconsin-Superior’s Cheer & Dance Club offers an escape from our cold dormancy and gives students the chance to dance away their stress. Dance has historically been a favored method of getting out of your mind and into your body. This year, the club has introduced Jacket Jam, a free beginner-friendly dance class with a specific focus on cardio.

Jacket Jam was inspired by Zumba dancing classes. It explores, and is open to, varying forms of pop and hip-hop dancing. Ally Cook, club leader, aimed to create a riveting class that could offer an exciting form of exercise.

“I believe that exercise should be fun and motivating,” says Cook, an elementary education major set to graduate in May. “This beginner dancing class is a great way for dancers to build on their skills and technique. Jacket Jam is a great way for students to connect with one another and create long-lasting friendships. We focus often on relationship-building in our classes to encourage this.”

Jacket Jam takes place every Monday from 6 to 7 p.m. Classes are held in the Marcovich Wellness Center’s dance and aerobics studio. It is open to all UWS staff and students. Anyone interested in working out, dancing, or making new connections are encouraged to stop by.

“My personal experience with Jacket Jam has been extremely positive,” said Cook. “I really enjoy choreographing dances, exercising and bonding with other students. As a senior, I wish I had begun Jacket Jam earlier in my college career.”

So far, a small group of regulars attend each class. Cook hopes to see these numbers rise as more students become aware of this amazing opportunity.

“I hope to find somebody reliable and willing to take over for me after graduation,” she says.

By Olivia Fleming, English major and student writer for UWS.