Command

Official terms spoken by officials or starters in order to prepare athletes for the commencement of racing.
In races such as triathlons, running, swimming, and track cycling, the command is an auditory warning that instructs athletes to prepare on the starting line. “Take your mark” or “On your mark” is uttered in order to inform athletes about the approaching start. Athletes have to position themselves rapidly and not move until they hear the start signal—a beep, gun, or whistle. The slightest movement prior to that can make them have an illegal start, which will disqualify them. This command plays an important role in race regulations, ensuring all athletes start simultaneously. The triathlon commands slightly vary in line with either land or aquatic races, but the overall purpose remains the same: to prepare athletes physically as well as mentally in order for the race to start.