Rachael Watkeys

Rachael is a highly experienced myotherapist and sports massage therapist with over 25 years of experience in human movement and soft tissue therapy. She holds a degree in Human Movement (BAppSci) and an Advanced Diploma in Myotherapy and is a member of
the Federation of Holistic Therapists (FHT).

Rachael began her career in Melbourne, where she trained and developed her clinical expertise while working in elite sport. During this time, she supported Olympic-level gymnasts at the Victorian Institute of Sport and worked as Lead Myotherapist for Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club, one of the world’s leading NRL teams.

After moving to the UK, Rachael continued working professionally as a sports massage therapist while also representing Great Britain in fastpitch softball at an elite level. Alongside her playing career, she worked in training and development roles, supporting staff and NHS
social care teams, and lectured in Anatomy and Physiology.

Following her playing career, Rachael remained closely involved in the sport on a voluntary basis. She provided sports massage and therapy support to the GB programme, progressing through roles with the Junior National Team to become Head Coach, and later Head Coach of the Senior Women’s National Team. She has since been recognised as a Hall of Famer for her contribution to the sport.

Rachael provides a wide range of evidence-based treatments, including deep tissue massage, sports massage, trigger point therapy and myofascial stretching, alongside more advanced techniques such as dry needling, shockwave therapy and dry cupping. She also incorporates rehabilitative exercise and corrective movement strategies, supported by her training in Pilates and kinesio taping.

She is known for her ability to assess movement patterns and identify the root cause of pain and dysfunction. Every treatment is tailored to the individual, whether the goal is to manage pain, recover from injury or improve performance. Rachael is passionate about helping people move better, stay injury-free and return to the activities they enjoy.

Areas of Expertise

• Sports massage
• Deep tissue massage
• Trigger point therapy
• Back and neck pain
• Shoulder and elbow pain
• Hip and gluteal discomfort
• Pregnancy massage
• Injury rehabilitation
• Mobility and movement assessment

Where would you recommend I go on holiday?

Australia, the most diverse and beautiful place on earth, but maybe I am biased!

Best achievement to date

Silver as a player in 2009 and as a coach in 2022 for Great Britian Softball.

Guilty pleasure Dinner
Pasta!