Research initiative
The AER Method Pilot Study.
An 18-week research initiative exploring how a structured combination of Pilates and aerial silks training supports women's strength, confidence, and control — both on the ground and in the air.
Now recruiting participants
What the study examines.
The study tracks physical outcomes — grip strength, shoulder stability, deep-core engagement, and proprioception — alongside lived-experience factors like confidence, body awareness, empowerment, and feeling safe while inverted.
Three groups will be analyzed. Two groups integrate both Pilates and aerial silks into their weekly routines. The control group is a Pilates-only cohort, so students taking only Pilates classes are eligible to apply.
The goal is to validate the AER Method as a research-informed, women-centered movement system — and use these insights to shape future programming, education, and industry standards.
Are you a fit?
Study eligibility:
- You are 18+ and not currently pregnant.
- Less than one year of aerial experience (preferably less than a few months). Experienced aerialists out of practice for a while are welcome too.
- Enrolled in an AER membership letting you take class a minimum of 2× a week — or willing to enroll during the study. Discounted memberships are available during the 4 months of study.
- Can commit to 2–3+ training sessions a week for 18 weeks, plus weekly journaling prompts (under 10 min/week).
The nature of the study.
This is a longitudinal study that begins when you enroll at AER, or upon recruitment if you're a current client. It opens with a 30-minute baseline assessment in the AER Method Lab — a small-group assessment slot with the AER team — and from there your progress is tracked psychologically through weekly journaling and every 9 weeks through physical testing at the studio (3 physical tests total).
The design makes participation possible without overcomplicating the requirement to simultaneously complete the study with others. Results and client information remain anonymous and confidential.
Applications remain open until the studio hits capacity.
Apply or schedule a consult.
Apply directly through our intake form, or book a 30-minute consult with Jenn (and Sheila) to ask questions before you decide.
Consults are scheduled via Calendly. The consult is a free 30 minutes with Jenn Vigh.