Jan Plas

Jan Plas: The Founder of Dutch Kickboxing and Founder of Mejiro Gym

Jan Plas, born in the Netherlands, is one of the most influential figures in the history of Dutch kickboxing. As the founder of the legendary Mejiro Gym in Amsterdam, Plas played a crucial role in developing and popularizing kickboxing in the Netherlands, a country that later became world-renowned for its dominant fighters in the sport. Plas was not only a trainer and coach, but also a pioneer who laid the foundation for generations of successful Dutch fighters.

Early Career and Influence on Kickboxing

Jan Plas began his career in martial arts with judo and karate before switching to kickboxing. In the 1970s, he traveled to Japan to train and was introduced to kickboxing, which was then primarily known as Kyokushin karate with head strikes. Plas was strongly influenced by the Japanese martial arts culture and brought the techniques and philosophies back to the Netherlands.

Upon his return to the Netherlands, he founded the Mejiro Gym in Amsterdam, named after the famous Mejiro Gym in Japan where he had trained. This gym would later become a breeding ground for some of the greatest Dutch kickboxers.

Mejiro Gym and Pioneering Work

Under the leadership of Jan Plas, Mejiro Gym became one of the most renowned kickboxing schools in the world. Plas mentored many future champions, including legendary fighters such as Rob Kaman, André Mannaart, and Lucien Carbin. His training methods and philosophies laid the foundation for the characteristic Dutch kickboxing style, known for its strong combinations of punches and kicks, powerful low kicks, and an aggressive yet technical approach.

Plas was known for his strict discipline and his ability to bring out the best in his students. His work at Mejiro Gym not only influenced Dutch kickboxers, but also the global development of the sport. His students won titles worldwide and contributed to the global recognition of Dutch kickboxing.

Legacy and Impact

Jan Plas is considered one of the founders of Dutch kickboxing and, through his work at Mejiro Gym, has set the standard for many generations of fighters and trainers. His contributions to the sport extend far beyond the ring, with a lasting influence on how kickboxing is trained and practiced, not only in the Netherlands but worldwide.

His legacy lives on through the many champions he trained and the gyms he inspired. Although Plas later became embroiled in controversy due to legal problems, his influence on the martial arts world remains undeniable. The success of Dutch fighters in the international kickboxing scene is largely due to the foundation Jan Plas laid.

Conclusion

Jan Plas was a visionary and pioneer in the world of Dutch kickboxing. As the founder of Mejiro Gym, he not only trained countless champions, but also left an indelible mark on the sport itself. His dedication, knowledge, and passion for martial arts have secured him a lasting place in the history of kickboxing, and his legacy continues to live on through the many generations of fighters he influenced.