Since 1975
From a formative journey to Japan to one of the defining names in Dutch kickboxing. This first history edition brings together the available archive photographs and the core story of the gym.
Jan Plas travelled to Japan with Jan van Looyen and Peter van der Hemel. In Tokyo they met sensei Kurosaki at his dojo in the Mejiro district. The Amsterdam gym would take its name from that district.
Back in Amsterdam, Mejiro Gym developed a direct training culture built around combinations, timing, conditioning and hard technical work. The gym became a place where committed beginners and elite fighters trained under the same roof.
The gym became closely associated with the rise of Dutch kickboxing. Fighters from Mejiro Gym competed internationally and helped establish the technical, high-pressure style for which the Netherlands became known.
Connections with Japan and Thailand remained part of the gym’s development. International exchange sharpened the approach to rhythm, kicking, conditioning and ring craft without losing the distinct Mejiro identity.
The next generation carried the gym forward. André Mannaart became central to preserving the standards of the old school while continuing to develop fighters for a changing international sport.
Mejiro Gym is connected to major names in kickboxing history, including Rob Kaman and Remy Bonjasky. Their achievements helped carry the name of the gym and Dutch kickboxing around the world.
Jan Plas died in 2010, but the gym’s identity remains active: train seriously, correct details directly and respect the craft. Mejiro Gym continues on Lauriergracht in Amsterdam under sensei André Mannaart.
