YMCA Awards – Level 3 Menopause

Service Description

YMCA Level 3 Award in Supporting Participation in Physical Activity: Menopause Qualification Number: 610/4379/5 This qualification is designed for qualified fitness professionals who wish to extend their understanding of menopause into applied, real-world practice. Building on foundational menopause knowledge, learners develop a clear and detailed understanding of how hormonal changes associated with menopause can influence physiological function, exercise response, recovery, performance, and long-term health outcomes. The course focuses on the practical application of evidence-based principles, enabling learners to programme, adapt, and modify exercise sessions and longer-term programmes for individuals at different stages of menopause. All learning is framed within professional boundaries, ensuring practice remains safe, inclusive, and within scope. Key areas explored include fatigue management, musculoskeletal and bone health, cardiovascular considerations, thermoregulation, and the interaction between exercise, lifestyle factors, and menopause symptoms. Learners are supported to make informed, client-centred decisions that prioritise health, wellbeing, and sustainability. Assessment includes structured presentations, professional discussion, and applied case study work. This approach ensures learners can demonstrate both underpinning knowledge and the ability to apply learning confidently in fitness and wellbeing settings. Who This Qualification Is For This course is suitable for fitness professionals who are ready to apply menopause knowledge in practice and create inclusive, effective training environments. Open to: Qualified fitness professionals holding CIMSPA-endorsed entry qualifications, including: Gym Instructor Group Exercise Instructor Personal Trainer Pilates-based Matwork Professionals seeking to specialise in women’s health and midlife wellbeing Outcome Successful completion confirms the learner’s competence to adapt and programme exercise safely and effectively for individuals experiencing menopause, supporting health and wellbeing through informed, professional practice. This qualification strengthens professional credibility and positions learners as part of a new generation of instructors championing inclusive, menopause-aware fitness provision.