Female Performance Course: The Menopause

About the course

With its focus on menopause and its impact on performance, this module is a key pillar of the Female Performance Course series and is essential for anyone seeking to optimise female athletic performance. Developed by Shapesmith in partnership with Comera Movement Science, the Menopause Module is led by Performance Fellow at Shapesmith Performance Dr Jess Laidlaw, with expert input from Sports Scientist Dr Matt Hancock.

Menopause is a natural biological transition that every woman experiences, yet it remains poorly understood. What does the menopause actually involve, and how does it present physically and psychologically for those going through it? And how should it be managed, both day-to-day and within a training environment, in order to protect and support athletic performance? This module addresses these questions and provides clear, actionable guidance grounded in contemporary evidence.

The content blends cutting-edge research with real-world case studies and practical application, and is designed for both female athletes, practitioners, and support staff who work with them. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, elite athlete, strength and conditioning coach, physiotherapist, sports scientist, or part of a multidisciplinary performance team, this module will deepen your theoretical and practical understanding of the menopause and its relationship to female athletic performance.

The module covers:

Defining and understanding the menopause

Physical and psychological symptoms of the menopause

Applying menopause knowledge to support training, recovery, and athlete management

Interactive learning checks are included throughout, culminating in a final summative assessment and certificate of completion, all aimed at enhancing your confidence and self-efficacy when working with the athletic female.