Welcome to Macclesfield Physio Pilates

I am a state registered, chartered physiotherapist and a fully certified Pilates instructor teaching Pilates both on an individual basis and through classes to patients in Macclesfield and surrounding areas in Cheshire

Shivaun Rackham, a certified APPI Pilates Instructor, owner of Macclesfield Physio PilatesI am based at the John Griffiths Physiotherapy Practice, located in Prestbury with patient parking available.  I run classes at  Over Alderley and Birtles Reading Rooms and Prestbury Village Hall, all within easy reach of Macclesfield Town centre.

I am certified with the Australian Physiotherapy And Pilates Institute and teach modified Pilates that is suitable for any age or level of fitness and am keen to put my experience and training to effect to help you to achieve your goals.  Pilates can be great to help work towards all sorts of goals, from getting back into shape after having a baby, to rehabilitating after an injury.

What Is Pilates?

Pilates is a mind and body conditioning exercise programme that targets the deep postural muscles of the abdomen and spine to improve overall central core stability and posture. 

Pilates was originally designed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s to elongate, strengthen and restore the body to balance.  He originally worked with dancers and gymnasts, so some of the original exercises are unsuitable for the average person.  

The APPI Pilates Method

The APPI Pilates Method is designed by physiotherapists and has modified the original exercises taking into account recent research and considerations for people undergoing rehabilitation. Continuous professional development is required to maintain certification and ensure high standards of Pilates teacher training.

A Personalised Treatment

No person is the same, even if their conditions are similar.  A Physiotherapist will ensure that they have an understanding of your general health, your body's posture and movements, and what you want to achieve from the treatment.  As part of the initial Individual Assessment, you will be provided with a personalised set of exercises that will be safe and effective for you.  

If you are attending a Pilates class and there is a change in your condition, a Physiotherapist will be able to adapt the exercises appropriately to accommodate this and reassure as indicated.  

What Others Say About the APPI Pilates Method

In a recent interview with the Daily Mail, Stewart Tucker, an orthopaedic and spinal surgeon at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, London stated "I’m seeing an increasing number of patients who have muscular strains or aggravated degenerate discs after attending Pilates classes because they thought it would help with their back problems.  While I recommend it for back pain and after injury, if exercises are carried out incorrectly they can weaken the back and cause existing conditions to deteriorate...  There are several key differences that make APPI better - and safer - for those with back pain. All of the instructors are trained physiotherapists. That medical knowledge means they have a real understanding of anatomy - in particular, back conditions and the strengths and weaknesses you may have."

Booking a Session

To book a session or to make enquiries please call 07944 755401 or email me at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.