What does "on [someone's] mark" mean? Could you give me some examples?

Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
The phrase "on your marks" is used as an instruction to prepare competitors in a race! It indicates to them that the race is going to begin and that they need to get into position. The word "mark" references the place - or mark- where runners put their feet before they start running. Ex: On your marks... False start! Ex: Ready? On your marks, get set... go! Ex: The starter yelled, "on your marks" and Ryan put his feet into position. Tim knew Ryan was going to win before the race even started.