2nd BEST4 Seminar: four legends united in Utrecht
On October 19, 2025, the second edition of the BEST4 Seminar took place in Utrecht — an intensive training day that brought together hundreds of martial arts enthusiasts from the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, and England for inspiration, technique, and cross-training. Once again, this event showed that the Dutch martial arts scene is a leading force when it comes to seminars with international appeal.
Four icons in the line-up:
Ernesto Hoost
Four-time K-1 champion and a household name in the kickboxing world.
Andy Souwer
A technically versatile fighter, known for his combinations, timing, and perseverance.
Albert Kraus
A veteran of the Dutch kickboxing world, with extensive experience both at home and abroad.
Semmy Schilt
With his height, reach, and reputation, always an impressive presence, both physically and mentally.
Each of the men brought his own perspective and insights into martial arts: Hoost with powerful combinations and defense, Souwer with refined precision techniques, Kraus with insight, and Schilt with strength, strategy, and mindset.
Alongside these four top names, the organization worked with local elite coaches, training partners, and staff who provided guidance and security throughout the day.
Program and structure
The day was carefully structured, with a varied warm-up, different technique blocks, Sparring, special techniques, and video analysis.
Welcome and introduction
Participants were welcomed, received their seminar shirt or materials, and attended a brief opening in which the goal of the day was outlined: growth, connection, and high-quality training.
General warm-up and mobility
Preparing the body: mobility exercises, stretching, core activation, and dynamic drills to prevent injuries and get the body ready for the seminar.
Technique blocks
During two or more sessions, the legends took turns leading the group. Topics varied from low kicks and kicking combinations to combinations, defending in a clinch, and various pad exercises. Participants were divided into smaller groups to allow for more personal attention.
Sparring
Under the supervision of experienced coaches and referees, participants could complete short Sparring rounds with different partners. The focus was on controlled intensity and applying the techniques they had learned, while participants could ask questions of the legends and assistant coaches.
Special clinics / advanced sessions
Specific themes were explored in separate blocks, such as kicking power, defensive positioning, combinations under pressure, and which conditioning exercises are relevant to the participants’ level in martial arts.
Q&A and storytelling
During or after the training blocks, there was time for questions: how to deal with setbacks, injuries, training periods, career planning, mindset, and fight preparation. The legends shared personal stories and anecdotes and looked back on memorable moments from their careers.
Feedback and networking
The day concluded with thanks, group photos, the presentation of certificates where applicable, and closing remarks. It was often emphasized that this was not the end, but a starting point — participants were encouraged to continue applying what they had learned in their clubs.
Importance and impact on the martial arts community
Improving technical skill levels
Learning from absolute top names allows coaches and fighters to identify gaps and improve. The impact extends further: once back at the gym, the knowledge can be shared with others.
Participants from across Europe
Participants from four countries created opportunities for cross-training, networking, the exchange of ideas, and potential future collaborations between clubs in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.
Strengthening the BEST4 brand
By delivering such a high-quality edition, BEST4 is strengthening its position as a top-class seminar — an event that no serious fighter or trainer will want to miss.
When is the next edition?
At the time of writing this blog, no official date has been announced for the next edition of the BEST4 Seminar.
Want to stay up to date? Keep an eye on the communication channels of Fight2Win.nl, Senshi, BEST4, Semmy Schilt, and Ernesto Hoost — a new edition will be announced via social media and our email newsletters.
