Member of the Month at Vero Pilates, Long Beach: Celebrating the Strength and Spirit of Mark Uranker
- Veronica Colwell
- 30 minutes ago
- 3 min read
At Vero Pilates, we are continually inspired by the resilience, dedication, and heart our members bring into the studio each day. This month, we’re honored to spotlight someone whose Pilates journey is nothing short of remarkable: Mark Uranker.
Mark’s story is one of profound strength—both physical and personal. After a challenging battle with cancer and a year and a half of intensive chemotherapy, Mark found himself weak, bedridden, and searching for a path back to vitality. What he discovered was more than just a method of movement; he found a supportive community, a renewed sense of strength, and a passion for Pilates that radiates through everything he does.
Finding Pilates, Finding Strength
Mark’s connection to Pilates began through his work with dancers, where he first learned about the method’s transformative power. When treatment left his body depleted, he knew Pilates could be the bridge back to strength, stability, and confidence.
A serendipitous Facebook post—“I want to join a studio… real Pilates, no BS!”—led him straight to Vero. Longtime friend and Vero instructor, Sabine, reached out, and the rest is history.
Now, months into his practice, Mark says, “I have made enormous progress. I’m back at my normal weight and have gained great muscle mass, strength, and coordination. I am so grateful to all the instructors at Vero.”
Mark Through His Instructors' Eyes
Mark’s instructor, Melissa, has had a front-row seat to his transformation—and she beams when she talks about him.
From day one, Mark came in committed to rebuilding his strength and deepening his understanding of classical Pilates. After falling in love with the method while visiting Greece, he wanted not only to move again, but to move with intention and precision.
Melissa shares some of the most profound changes she’s witnessed:
A major boost in overall strength and flexibility
Heightened body awareness, allowing him to tap into the deeper essence and details of each exercise
Mindful, focused movement, every session
Remarkable improvements in posture—both in the studio and in daily life. “Mark physically holds himself up with strength and confidence,” she says.
And beyond the physical, Mark brings an energy that elevates the room. He asks for added challenges, stays deeply engaged, and shares positivity that spreads to everyone around him.
A True Part of the Vero Community
Mark is not only a dedicated student—he is a joyful presence who helps shape the spirit of our studio.
Whether he’s chatting warmly with fellow members or instructors, cheering others on, or bringing a homemade cake to our Oktoberfest celebration (yes, he really did that!), Mark’s generosity and enthusiasm brighten every corner of Vero.
Melissa sums it up beautifully:“Mark is an absolute joy to work with: focused, engaged, willing to learn. His positive attitude is contagious.”
Beyond the Studio
Mark’s life outside Pilates is just as vibrant and multifaceted as he is.
He’s an avid baker, cook, and wine enthusiast.
He travels often—especially to Greece, where he spends several months each year and is even learning Greek.
And professionally, Mark is a musician: a pianist, organist, and harpsichordist who recently purchased his very first harpsichord.
He’s also embarking on a new chapter, training to become an oncology navigator, a role inspired by his own healing journey.
Celebrating You, Mark
Mark, your courage, dedication, and spirit remind us what it means to move with purpose. You inspire us with your resilience, your passion for learning, and the joy you bring into the Vero community.
Thank you for being a part of our studio—and for showing all of us what it looks like to rebuild strength from the inside out.
Congratulations on being our Member of the Month!