Meet Lesley Smyth:
30 Years of Expertise in Perinatal & Specialist Fitness Training
If you’re looking to learn from one of the most experienced and passionate fitness tutors in the UK, meet Lesley Smyth — YMCAfit’s perinatal training expert.
With over 30 years in the health and fitness industry, Lesley has qualifications across Levels 2, 3, and 4, including Personal Training, Group Exercise, Pilates, Yoga, Perinatal Fitness, and Older Adult Fitness. She’s also an experienced presenter in specialist areas such as obesity and diabetes, equipping trainers to support clients with long-term health challenges.

But her true specialism, and greatest passion, lies in helping fitness professionals work confidently with pregnant and postnatal clients. As a mother of five and grandmother to twelve, Lesley’s personal journey deeply shapes her professional approach. She knows first-hand the physical, emotional, and psychological changes women experience during this life stage, and she’s committed to ensuring trainers are equipped to offer safe, supportive, and empowering guidance.
“I first entered the fitness industry to set a positive example for my children. Over the years, I became known for being approachable, trustworthy, and genuinely invested in my clients’ wellbeing. Those values still guide every course I teach.”
Why Lesley Still Teaches Perinatal Training After 27 Years
Lesley has been delivering the YMCAfit Level 3 Award in Supporting Participation in Physical Activity – Perinatal since 1997, and she still believes it’s one of the most rewarding and impactful qualifications a fitness professional can achieve.
She’s taught hundreds—if not thousands—of learners, and has seen them leave with not only the skills to adapt training safely for pregnant and postnatal clients, but also the confidence to become a trusted resource in their communities.
About the YMCAfit Perinatal Fitness Course
The YMCAfit Level 3 Award in Supporting Participation in Physical Activity – Perinatal course is designed for Personal Trainers, Yoga Teachers, Pilates Instructors, and other exercise professionals who want to:
- Adapt programmes for pregnant and postnatal clients
- Understand the physiological changes across each trimester and the postnatal period
- Know when and how to refer clients to other professionals
- Build strong, supportive, and trusting client relationships
Course structure:
- 4 live, tutor-led webinars (weekend mornings)
- 2-4 hours of study per week
- Access all resources online via our platform, Suada
- Assessments include written tasks and two practical case studies
With flexible study options, it’s ideal for busy professionals looking to add a specialist skill without pausing their current work!
Who Should Enrol?
You’ll need a Level 2 or 3 fitness qualification and industry experience, but most importantly, you’ll need curiosity, compassion, and a commitment to inclusivity.
This course is perfect if you want to:
- Stand out in the fitness industry with a sought-after specialism
- Support clients through pregnancy and beyond
- Deliver evidence-based, safe, and effective sessions
Why Learn from Lesley?
Lesley’s approach blends decades of experience, academic expertise, and genuine empathy. Her teaching is warm, clear, and rooted in real-world application, meaning you’ll graduate feeling prepared, capable, and ready to make a meaningful impact.
For Lesley, this isn’t just a course — it’s a way to shape the future of inclusive, supportive fitness.
Ready to train with Lesley and make a difference in your clients’ lives?
Find upcoming Perinatal Fitness course dates and start your journey today!
Train with purpose. Lead with knowledge. Support with heart.
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