Jan Plas

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

Born in the Netherlands, Jan Plas 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-famous 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 as a martial artist in judo and karate before switching to kickboxing. In the 70s he traveled to Japan to train and was introduced to kickboxing, which was then known as Kyokushin karate with punches to the head. Plas was strongly influenced by Japanese martial arts culture and brought the techniques and philosophies back to the Netherlands.

On 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 Pioneer 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 powerful combinations of punches and kicks, hard low kicks and an aggressive yet technical approach.

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

Legacy and Impact

Jan Plas is considered one of the founders of Dutch kickboxing and has set the standard for generations of fighters and trainers with his work at Mejiro Gym. His contributions to the sport extend far beyond the ring, with a lasting influence on the way 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 became controversial in later years due to legal problems, his influence on combat sports remains undeniable. The successes of Dutch fighters in the international kickboxing scene are largely due to the foundation that 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 given him a lasting place in the history of kickboxing, and his legacy lives on through the many generations of fighters he has influenced.